Asbestos is a mineral that can be found in the natural environment at a low, safe level. The mineral is composed of strands of durable, heat resistant fibers. Because of their strength and durability, asbestos fibers have been used in various applications such as making insulation and flooring.
Asbestos fibers, when broken down or damaged, can form a toxic dust. If inhaled, the fibers can accumulate in the stomach or lungs which my lead to the development of lung cancer or mesothelioma.
Where asbestos may be found in the home
When the effects of asbestos were discovered in the 1970s, use of the mineral was banned. While most products today do not contain asbestos, some older homes (built before the 1970s) may still contain asbestos. Following is a list of places where asbestos hazards may be found in the home:
What should you do if you have asbestos in your home?
If you think you may have asbestos-containing materials in your home, do not panic. If the materials are not damaged, they should be left alone.
Keep an eye on any materials you think may contain asbestos for signs of water damage, abrasions or tears. If you think you may have damaged asbestos-containing material in your home, do not touch it or try and remove it yourself. Contact local health officials to properly assess the situation.
What should you do if you discover damaged asbestos materials in your home?
A professional health inspector will assess whether or not the asbestos has been disturbed and is hazardous. If it tests positive, there are two options: repair or removal.
Repairs are typically less expensive than complete removal of asbestos-containing materials. This usually involves using a sealant to bind the asbestos fibers back together or a protective wrap to cover the materials so the toxic asbestos fibers cannot be released.
Although repairing the material can make future removal more difficult, professionals recommend repairs, as the fibers are more likely to be disturbed and released during removal.