If your home or commercial building was built before 1978, there is a chance that it could have asbestos, a dangerous material once commonly used in construction. While asbestos isn’t harmful when left undisturbed, once you are exposed to its airborne filters it can lead to serious health issues, including lung disease and cancer. This is why it’s important to recognize the signs early and to think about asbestos removal. We’re going to walk through the most common signs your property might have asbestos and what steps to take to make sure your space is safe.
Your Property Was Built Before 1978
One of the biggest signs is going to be the age of your home or building. Asbestos was widely used in construction materials due to its durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties, until it was regulated in the late 1970s. If your property was built before 1978, there’s a good chance that materials inside might still have asbestos, and asbestos removal should be considered during any renovation or damage restoration project.
You See Crumbling or Damaged Materials
Asbestos was commonly used in:
- Popcorn ceilings
- Floor tiles and adhesives
- Pipe insulation
- Roofing shingles
- Siding
- Wall and ceiling insulation
If you start noticing any of these materials becoming brittle, cracked, or damaged, this is a big sign. Disturbing them could release asbestos fibers into the air. Before doing any repairs or renovations, get in contact with a licensed professional to check whether asbestos removal is needed.
You’re Planning Renovation or Demolition Work
Many property owners unknowingly expose themselves and others to asbestos during renovations. Cutting, drilling, or tearing out old materials can release dangerous particles. If you’re looking to remodel, it’s important to consider having a professional inspection first. A certified asbestos removal team can recognize any risks and safely remove the affected materials before any work begins.
You Suspect Health Symptoms Related to Exposure
Asbestos-related illnesses can take years to fully develop but may include:
- Persistent coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest Pain
- Fatigue
If you or anyone in your home or building is experiencing these symptoms and there’s a possibility of past exposure, now is the time to act. Getting your property tested and scheduling professional asbestos removal could prevent further harm from taking place.
What NOT to Do
If you think you’ve found asbestos, do not:
- Touch, cut, or disturb the material
- Attempt to remove it yourself
- Use a regular vacuum to clean it up
Trying to remove asbestos by yourself is not only dangerous, but also illegal in many areas without the right certification. Handling this in the wrong way can contaminate the entire building and increase health risks.
What TO Do Next
Here’s the right approach to handling potential asbestos:
- Stop work immediately if you are currently in the middle of a renovation.
- Avoid disturbing the suspected material.
- Call a licensed asbestos professional for testing.
- Schedule asbestos removal with a certified restoration company.
Professional asbestos removal teams have the equipment, training, and protocols to safely contain and remove the material while still keeping your health and property safe.
Asbestos may feel out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind, especially if you’re living or working in a building that is older. Being able to recognize the signs and take action quickly can protect your health and save you from expensive repairs down the line. If you are worried about asbestos in your home or business, trust a certified asbestos removal specialist to check the situation and take the right steps.
Need expert help? Contact our team today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our asbestos removal services. Your safety is our top priority.
