Homes built before 1980 most likely contain asbestos. The hazardous substance could be found in the floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roof shingles, insulation, and pipe cement. It could also be present in the joint compound used on the seams between the sheetrock pieces. Now, just because your house is built after 1980 does not mean it is safe from asbestos. So, how do you know if asbestos is present in your property? How do you find it?
Asbestos Testing At Your Home
The truth is, a visual inspection is not enough to know whether or not your property contains asbestos. Samples need to be sent to an accredited and certified laboratory for further analysis.
When doing the sampling for an asbestos test, you need to follow safety measures. Turn off any cooling or heating system, and spray soapy water on the suspected material. Doing so prevents the spread of asbestos fibres in your place. Also, when handling the material, you should wear disposable gloves. To take the sample, use a small knife or any sharp object. And then, put it in a clean, airtight container before taking it to the laboratory for a lab test. The result of the asbestos lab test is crucial as it tells you the quantity of asbestos present in your home. It also suggests an appropriate asbestos removal method that is applicable to your case.
Laboratories usually have two ways to perform the asbestos analysis: Polarized Light Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy. Should you wish to know if a laboratory is certified to perform either of the two tests, you may consult with the National Institute for Standards and Technology. In some countries, detailed steps are provided on how to collect asbestos. However, professionals always recommend that you work with a certified asbestos removal professional when taking samples. This will prevent asbestos exposure for you and the whole family.
What If Asbestos Is Present in Your Home?
There are many factors to take into account when it comes to deciding what asbestos removals method needs to be done. The condition of the material, whether it’s friable or not, and the location of the asbestos are among them.
Asbestos is classified as friable when it easily crumbles or can be reduced to a powder state. On the other hand, asbestos is considered non-friable if it is securely bonded with other materials and its fibres aren’t easily made airbourne.
An asbestos-containing material is only considered in good condition when its fibres cannot be released into the air. Then again, experts say you can never be so confident. They would advise to always monitor for signs of asbestos damage or deterioration.
The Asbestos Removal Process
If you suspect that asbestos is present in your home, the only permanent and best solution is an asbestos removal service. But again, the removal process may cause hazardous fibres to be released into the air, especially if not done properly and safely.
To ensure the safety of the homeowners, air samples must be taken after the removal process. And during the removal of the asbestos, contractors are advised to wear PPE and use a HEPA vacuum.
Working with Professional Asbestos Removal Contractors
Should you wish to repair or remove any asbestos-containing materials from your home, it is best that you choose a competent and qualified professional who is certified to perform the asbestos abatement work.
Yes, working with companies that ask for low service fees may sound like a tempting option. But remember that it is your safety that is at stake. In most cases, these companies and contractors are not qualified to do the job.
As a safety precaution, choose to work with a company or contractor that has completed a state-approved asbestos removal course. To know more about this, contact the Better Business Bureau. Better yet, seek recommendations from your friends who have availed asbestos removal services before.