How Do You Know If You Have Asbestos?

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally. People once regarded it as a miracle material because it resists heat, lasts long, and is affordable.

However, we’ve since learned that asbestos exposure can cause serious health problems. These include asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Now, let’s get down to brass tacks and figure out if your home might be harboring this hidden hazard.

How To Tell If You Have Asbestos? Start with Your Home’s Age

If you’re living in a house that was built before the 1980s, there’s a chance it contains asbestos. Asbestos was commonly found in building materials like insulation, floor tiles, and roofs. So it’s important to check your home’s age to see if asbestos might be present.

Identifying Asbestos: What’s It Look Like?

Asbestos can be difficult to identify just by looking at it. However, there are some telltale signs:

• Insulation: Asbestos-containing insulation often appears as a gray or off-white, fibrous material. 
• Floor Tiles: Asbestos floor tiles are typically 9×9 inches and may have a white, brown, or gray color. 
• Pipe Insulation: Asbestos pipe insulation may resemble a corrugated paper-like material or be wrapped in a canvas-like fabric.

Asbestos Legislation and Regulations

Many governments have made laws to reduce the risks of asbestos exposure. These measures can include:

• Bans on certain asbestos-containing materials.
• Licensing for professionals who manage asbestos.
• Required disclosure of asbestos in homes during real estate deals.

 

Know your local rules to stay compliant. It’s important to understand your rights and duties as a homeowner.

In Oregon, an accredited inspector must conduct an asbestos survey for all commercial and residential buildings built before January 1, 2004. This is necessary before any demolition or renovation work. The survey report needs to stay on-site during demolition or renovation. A copy should be sent to the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) if they ask for it.

Owner-occupants doing their own home renovations are not subject to this regulation. However, we highly recommend getting testing for your health and safety.

In Washington State, a good-faith inspection for asbestos must be done before any construction, renovation, remodeling, maintenance, repair, or demolition. An AHERA-certified building inspector is required for this inspection. It applies to all buildings, regardless of age. This requirement applies to homeowners, building owners, contractors, and HOAs.

Workers and supervisors must meet minimum training standards for asbestos projects. Additionally, the state requires notification of these projects and sets up a program to approve training courses.

At Atlas Labs, Inc., we understand the serious health risks posed by asbestos exposure. This is why we offer complete asbestos testing services that meet all regulations in Oregon and Washington.

Stay Informed: Know the Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

It’s important to know the health risks of asbestos exposure. This knowledge helps you take the right precautions. Long-term exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems, such as:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease characterized by scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties and an increased risk of lung infections.
• Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure increases the risk of developing lung cancer, especially among smokers.
• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest cavity, and abdomen. Mesothelioma is almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure.

 

Stay informed about the hazards of asbestos exposure. Take action to protect yourself and your loved ones from its dangerous effects.

Preventive Measures: How to Minimize Asbestos Exposure

To reduce the risk of asbestos exposure, it’s crucial to take some preventive measures:

• Regular Inspections: Schedule periodic inspections by a professional asbestos inspector, especially if your home was built before the 1980s.
• Proper Maintenance: Keep asbestos-containing materials in good condition by avoiding damage or disturbance. For example, avoid drilling or cutting into walls or floors that may contain asbestos.
• Encapsulation: If asbestos is present and in good condition, encapsulation can help seal the material and prevent fibers from becoming airborne. This method involves applying a specialized coating or barrier to the asbestos-containing material.
• Professional Removal: If asbestos is damaged or deteriorating, the safest course of action is to have it removed by a licensed asbestos abatement company.

FAQs

How do you know if you have asbestos in your walls?

It’s challenging to determine if your walls contain asbestos just by looking at them. The best way to know for sure is to hire a professional asbestos inspector who will take samples and have them analyzed in a lab.

Can I remove asbestos myself?

DIY asbestos removal is not recommended. Asbestos fibers can be easily inhaled, and improper handling can lead to increased exposure. Always consult a professional asbestos removal company for safe and proper handling.

How much does asbestos removal cost?

The cost of asbestos removal varies depending on the size of the project and the specific materials involved. Typically, asbestos removal can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It’s essential to get multiple quotes from reputable companies to find the best value.

Is it dangerous to live in a house with asbestos?

As long as the asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and not disturbed, the risk of exposure is minimal. However, if the materials are damaged or disturbed, it’s essential to address the issue immediately to reduce exposure risk.

Get Professional Help: When in Doubt, Call an Expert

So, how do you know if you have asbestos? Look for signs of asbestos, think about your home’s age, and ask for expert help if unsure. This way, you can spot and handle the risks linked to asbestos in your home. 

Addressing asbestos concerns may seem tough at first. However, taking the right steps will create a safer and healthier home for you and your family. Remember, knowledge is power. Knowing about asbestos in your home is the first step to taking action.

If you suspect that you have asbestos in your home, it’s best to call a professional asbestos inspector. They’ll take samples of the materials and have them analyzed in a lab to confirm the presence of asbestos. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

You can also drop off a sample to Atlas Labs, Inc. Find out more here.

 

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