Asbestos Inspection
Asbestos used to be added to various products to give them added durability and to offer heat insulation and for fire resistance. However, in time, it was discovered that those who are exposed to asbestos over time begin to develop serious health issues, such as lung cancer. This is something that can be avoided if you contact a professional to find out if it is in the home that you wish to purchase. With the right type of inspection, a professional can provide you with due diligence and piece of mind.
Asbestos Danger
Lung cancer and mesothelioma risks increase with the number of asbestos fibers that are inhaled. The risk of developing lung cancer is increased even more if the person also smokes. Those who develop asbestos-related health issues have been exposed to a high level of asbestos for years. Symptoms may not appear until 20 to 30 years after they were first exposed. Many people are exposed to small amounts of asbestos on a regular basis but do not develop serious health issues. However, when it becomes airborne and inhaled, the risk of lung cancer is increased. i
Where Asbestos Is Found Most Often
While most things made today do not have asbestos in them. There were many buildings built before the 1970s that unfortunately still contain this hazardous material. Some things that may contain asbestos might include the following:
- Shingles
- Siding
- Cement roofing
- Wood stoves
- Door gaskets in furnaces
- Coal stoves with worn seals might release asbestos fibers.
- Decorative or soundproofing material sprayed onto ceilings and walls
- Texted paint
- Artificial ashes and embers that are used in gas-fireplaces
- Stove-top pads
- Houses built between the 1930s and 1950s might have insulation with asbestos
- Vinyl floor tiles and the vinyl sheet flooring adhesives
- Oil and coal furnaces