Purchasing a home can be filled with excitement and anticipation for homeowners. It can also be a time where additional responsibilities are acquired. Having the assistance of a reliable and honest Louisville real estate agent will make all the difference in the world.
One of the many things that can go unnoticed is taking precautions against obsolete and toxic building materials which may still be present in homes.
Used throughout the 20th century to insulate pipes, boilers and in roofing, asbestos gained recognition due to its resistance to heat and electrical conductivity. Homes built before 1980 may still contain asbestos.
If asbestos is located, it must be left un-touched until a professional can provide a course of action. In many situations, the best action is no action. Asbestos that is disturbed or damaged due to age is known as “friable” asbestos. This is a concern because its toxic fibers can easily circulate and become inhaled.
Frequent and long term exposure to asbestos has been known to cause asbestosis and sarcomatoid mesothelioma, two forms of asbestos lung cancer. Mesothelioma causes are as a result of inhaling asbestos fibers that become ingested in the inner linings of your lung.
If asbestos removal is necessary, it can be costly but the worth the price of obtaining a healthy and safe home. The removal of asbestos from homes, buildings and public facilities should be performed by a licensed abatement contractor, who is trained and licensed in handling hazardous materials. The Kentucky Division for Air Quality strives to protect the environment and civilian health by monitoring and assisting in the disposal and removal of asbestos.
Once the removal is complete, green insulation alternatives now exist that replace the need for asbestos entirely. Many locations in the U.S. are swiftly changing their construction practices to suit the environment and the health of human beings.
These eco-friendly options include cotton fiber, lcynene foam and cellulose. They provide home owners with the same intrinsic qualities possessed by asbestos, a healthy replacement and can even reduce annual energy costs. Studies have shown that the use of cotton fiber can reduce energy costs up to 25 percent annually.
As a home owner, you have additional responsibilities to make sure you are living in a hospitable environment. In the 21st century, there is no need to put yourselves and your families at risk at the hands of asbestos. These new alternatives will allow real estate men, women and potential homeowners to be free and clear of any health damaging substances.
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The preceding post was sent to me from the Mesothelioma Cancer Center and is republished with permission. If you own or plan to buy a home built prior to 1980, make sure you check out their site. Remember, only licensed professionals should do any work related to the removal of asbestos.
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Erik Hitzelberger is a licensed REALTOR with RE/MAX Alliance in Louisville. If you need a Louisville Real Estate agent please email me or call 502.921.3989.
I specialize in the following areas of the Metro Louisville Area: Prospect, Middletown, Jeffersontown (J-Town), Fern Creek, Okolona, Shepherdsville, Mt Washington, Hillview, Brooks and Pewee Valley. Click the following links to learn more about Louisville and Bullitt County Real Estateor to Search for Louisville Homes
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