ASBESTOS AT HOME
Asbestos is a group of natural occurring minerals with thin, microscopic fibers. Because these fibers have been found to be resistant to heat, fire, and chemicals, various manufacturer’s have incorporated asbestos in the production of a variety of building products. Floor tiles, for example, may contain only a small percentage of asbestos. Examples of a few products that might contain asbestos are:
- Wall and ceiling insulation
- Insulation for pipes and boilers
- Insulation in buildings and homes
- Ceiling and floor tile
- Roofing shingles
Everyone has heard about the dangers of asbestos. Asbestos is most hazardous when it is friable or easily crumbled by hand, releasing fibers in the air. If inhaled, they can become trapped in the lungs and stay there for many years. Over time, this can lead to serious health issues. Generally, material in good condition will not release asbestos fibers. It’s when asbestos is disturbed and fibers are released in the air that the environment can be hazardous to your health
If you think asbestos may be in your home, don’t panic! Usually the best thing is to leave asbestos material that is in good condition alone. The mere presence of asbestos in your home or building is not hazardous.
You can’t tell whether a material contains asbestos simply by looking at it, unless it is labeled. If in doubt, treat the material as if it contains asbestos or have it sampled and analyzed by a qualified professional.
Some firms offer combinations of testing, assessment, and correction. A professional hired to assess the need for corrective action should not be connected with an asbestos testing firm. It is better to use two different firms to eliminate any conflict of interest. At CA Labs, we specialize in the testing and analysis of asbestos in building materials and provide professional assessment firms and homeowners with a complete, objective analysis of their samples.
Call us today if you have any questions about asbestos.