Asbestos: Know What you are Dealing with

Asbestos: Know What you are Dealing With

Asbestos is a natural mineral that is used in a myriad of building products, especially in the fireproofing industry. Prior to 1979 asbestos was used widely in the building industry. Studies show that asbestos can cause in humans. Asbestos levels become dangerous when the material is disturbed, making the fibers airborne. Inhaling the fibers into the lungs is the manner in which asbestos becomes a problem. What follows is a list of areas where asbestos is common.

Fireproofing materials= almost any product that was used as a fireproofing material contains asbestos.

Ceilings= most ceiling materials used in ceilings products prior to 1979 whether in tile, or spray on form have a high probability of containing asbestos. "Popcorn" (that cottage cheese looking material) that is commonly found in a lot of homes almost always contain asbestos.

Heating systems= Asbestos was a commonly used substance in manufacturing heating ducts and pipes, most often in the lining.

Insulation= Insulation is probably the second most common material behind fireproofing that contains asbestos.

Roofing= Roofing materials almost always contained asbestos; even today many roofing materials contain some sort asbestos material.

Floor coverings= most floor covering materials including linoleum, tile, and at one time most carpet backings contained asbestos.

During any remodel project it is important to be prepared to deal with asbestos fibers.

Most commonly any type of sanding, scraping, or demo work will release the fibers and bring levels dangerous. Proper precautions need to be adhered to keep yourself and others on the project safe.

If there is any question as to levels of contamination, a qualified expert should be consulted. Some situations require abatement be done by licensed professionals. Have fun with your project, but be safe, know what you are dealing with when it comes to asbestos.