If you’re like us when you hear the word asbestos the picture of cleaners in full hazmat suits dragging out bags and bags of hazardous waste comes to mind. While many people have an idea of what asbestos is, most do not know what to look for to avoid its harmful effects.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural mineral that is fibrous. It could be green, red, yellow, white, gray, or even blue! Asbestos occurs in rocks and soil. It was used in homes and buildings due to its fire-resistant fibers, and well as its insulating properties. Asbestos has been used in shingles, tiles (floor and ceiling), paper products, automobile breaks, and much much more.
Since asbestos has such fine fibers, slight disruptions to the asbestos-containing products can cause it to linger in the air. Even small amounts of asbestos can be enough to catch the development of lung disease, asbestosis, and mesothelioma; however, the longer the exposure the worse the greater the chance of harmful effects. The risks are even greater in those that smoke.
Common Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure are:
- Wheezing
- Dry Cough
- Shortness of Breath
- Chest Tightness
- Chest Pain
- Crackling Like Noises When Breathing
- Respiratory Issues
- Pleural Thickening
- Pleural Plaques
- Pleural Effusions
How do Know if Your House Has Asbestos?
In the early 1970s all the way through the 1970s, asbestos was used in building materials because it was inexpensive, an insulator, and fire-retardant. In older homes that have not been renovated, it is a safe idea to have them tested by a professional. Many of the items that have asbestos have no identifiers that tell you that they are dangerous. In small instances, it may be labeled. When in doubt, it is safe to have your home tested.
Contact Home Sweet Home Inspections
While Home Sweet Home Inspections specializes in full property inspection, our specialists are here to help you keep your family safe. Whether you are adding an asbestos test to your property inspection or just need an asbestos test, we are here for you. Do not hesitate to reach out to our team if you have any additional questions!