Flood
Flood can be damaging to anything, but particularly homes and other structures whose foundation can be severely weakened by water damage. In addition there are several hazards that follow floods, including mold and other toxins. Among the lesser known toxins that affects flood victims is asbestos. Nearly 80% of all buildings built prior to 1980 contain some level of asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos was used in thousands of construction compounds, including insulation, drywall, floor and ceiling tiles, and concrete/bonding compounds. For this reason asbestos is present in an alarmingly high amount of buildings.
When flood affects the structural integrity of a building, asbestos hazards must be considered. It is not likely asbestos will be an immediate hazard during flooding because moisture will typically keep the dangerous fibers intact, but it must be considered in clean-up efforts, particularly in highly damaged older structures. Asbestos can be released into the air when its base material is considered "friable;" the official description being that the material is able to be crushed or pulverized by human hand pressure. Water can damage asbestos containing materials so that the material becomes friable.
In these cases it is important the proper personnel is contracted to clean these sites. Damage restoration companies can help the home or building discern which material is safe for them to remove and which is better suited for a licensed asbestos abatement company to discard. The restoration may then subcontract a suitable abatement contractor or allow the home/building owner to contract one of their choice. Either way, it is important that all are aware of all possible hazards that may exist on the scene of a particular flood-damaged structure.
A damage restoration company will be able to consult with a building owner and work closely with them to restore the building or occasionally in the event of a total loss, assist in reconstruction efforts and consultation. In any event, the first step is ensuring the scene is safe for restoration or reconstruction and that begins with removing all active toxins, including the risk or asbestos exposure.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
