Common Locations of Asbestos
Asbestos was a material commonly used in the construction of homes and buildings between the 1940s and 1970s. It is naturally occurring and separates itself into thin strands that are microscopic and can become airborne. This substance was widely used because of its versatility and durable features. If a person's home was built between 15 and 30 years ago, there is a solid chance that the dwelling was built using asbestos material. Many individuals do not suspect their home to be contaminated, so if you are not sure, it is best to consult a specialist that handles asbestos investigations and removal. Until more information is found on whether or not the home is contaminated, it is best to leave the area alone. Remodeling or demolition to the property can cause more harm than good when trying to contain and remove asbestos.
One of the first steps in looking for asbestos in the home is to know areas where contamination can be most prevalent. A homeowner should be suspicious of asbestos materials in the following locations: cement or insulations of wall boards, roofs, cement sheds, garage wall panels, side bath panels, warm heating systems, drain pipes and any type of insulation board. Although there could be potentially other places that asbestos can be lurking, these locations have been more readily identified. If the house is rented, and the building is more than fifteen years old, it is important to retain proper information from the landlord on whether or not the dwelling contains asbestos.
If asbestos is found in any location mentioned above, it is important not to panic. Leave the area undisturbed so it does not become a larger issue. It is an option to take care of the asbestos material without professional assistance. It is crucial, however, to be well versed in safety issues regarding asbestos removal. If you find locations in your home that contain asbestos, do not drill, sand, or try to break any portion that could contain the asbestos. It would be a good idea to take a small sample of the material to be tested by a professional to determine if it is asbestos contaminated. Leaving the asbestos material undisturbed is the best option for keeping the home and family safe. There are different options to prevent airborne asbestos if it is worrisome to the person who owns the house, but the removal is not always the best option for keeping fibers out of the air.
Last modified: September 22 2008.
