For homeowners, the safety and health of their household is paramount. In light of this, one topic that continues to raise concerns is the presence and dangers of asbestos within residential properties. 

Once hailed as a miracle material for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, asbestos has since been revealed to be a significant health hazard. 

This post aims to shed light on why asbestos is dangerous, particularly in homes, and what steps homeowners can take to mitigate these risks.

What is Asbestos?

Environmental 911 offers specialized asbestos cleanup services to create safe environments for homes and businesses. Asbestos, valued for its heat and fire resistance, was widely used in construction throughout the 20th century. However, health risks from exposure have resulted in stricter regulations and the need for professional removal. Environmental 911 is committed to safely managing and removing asbestos hazards to protect people and the environment.

The Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

The dangers of asbestos cannot be overstated, primarily due to its severe impact on health. When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed, they release fine fibers into the air, which can be inhaled or ingested. Once inside the body, these fibers can cause inflammation, and scarring, and eventually lead to several serious diseases:

1. Mesothelioma

This rare and aggressive cancer affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) or abdomen (peritoneum) and is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Symptoms can take 20 to 50 years to appear after the initial exposure.

2. Lung Cancer

Those exposed to asbestos have a significantly higher risk of lung cancer, especially if they smoke. Like mesothelioma, symptoms can take decades to develop.

3. Asbestosis

A chronic lung condition characterized by the scarring of lung tissues, leading to breathing difficulties. It's directly caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, with symptoms appearing after many years of exposure.

4. Other Conditions

Exposure to asbestos, a hazardous material once widely used in construction and other industries, can lead to several serious health conditions. Among these are pleural thickening, a condition where the lining of the lung thickens and swells, making breathing difficult.

Additionally, individuals exposed to asbestos may develop pleural plaques, which are areas of fibrous thickening on the pleura, the membrane surrounding the lungs. 

Why Should Homeowners Be Concerned?

Many homes built before the 1980s are likely to contain asbestos in some form. It could be in the insulation, floor tiles, roofing, piping, or in the joint compound used on seams between pieces of drywall. 

The material itself isn't harmful if it's in good condition and undisturbed. However, during renovations, repairs, or due to deterioration over time, these materials can be damaged, releasing dangerous fibers into the air.

What Should Homeowners Do?

1. Identify Potential Asbestos

If your home was constructed prior to the 1980s, there's a good chance it contains materials made with asbestos. Given its health risks, especially those related to lung diseases, it's crucial to consider having your property inspected by professionals. 

These experts can meticulously collect samples from various parts of your home and conduct thorough tests to determine the presence of asbestos. 

If found, they can also assess the level of risk it poses to you and your family's health, providing guidance on the next steps, whether it involves removal or other mitigation strategies.

2. Avoid Disturbing It

If asbestos is discovered within your home and is determined to be in good condition, it may not necessarily require removal. In several instances, the safest course of action is to leave the asbestos undisturbed. 

This approach is advised because disturbing asbestos-containing materials can lead to the release of harmful fibers into the air. These fibers, when inhaled, pose serious health risks. 

Therefore, by leaving the asbestos untouched, provided it remains in good condition and does not pose an immediate threat, you can avoid the potential release of these dangerous fibers and maintain a safer living environment.

3. Professional Removal

If the material containing asbestos is found to be damaged or is likely to be disturbed by future home renovation or improvement projects, it is of utmost importance to engage the services of certified asbestos removal experts. 

Attempting to remove asbestos on your own, or DIY asbestos removal is strongly discouraged because of the significant health risks associated with inhaling asbestos fibers. 

These fibers can lead to serious respiratory issues and diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Therefore, to ensure the safety and health of everyone involved, professional intervention is crucial.

4. Stay Informed

Understanding the potential risks associated with asbestos exposure and knowing the proper ways to mitigate these dangers can significantly contribute to safeguarding your family's health. 

It's crucial to educate yourself and your loved ones about the serious health issues that asbestos can cause, including lung diseases and cancer. 

By being informed about where asbestos can be found in the home and how to avoid exposure, you can take proactive steps to prevent these risk factors from affecting your family.

Conclusion

The discovery of asbestos in your home can be alarming, but with the right knowledge and professional help, you can mitigate the risks. 

Being proactive about identifying and properly managing asbestos-containing materials can ensure your home remains a safe haven for you and your family. 

Remember, the key to dealing with asbestos is not panic but preparation and informed action.

Take Action Now: Contact Environmental 911

Don't wait for asbestos exposure symptoms to arise before taking action. If you suspect your home contains asbestos or if you're planning renovations on a property built before the 1980s, reach out to Environmental 911 today. 

Environmental 911 offers expert mold remediation and asbestos risk management in Pasadena. Our certified professionals use advanced technology for safe assessments, thorough inspections, and effective removal, ensuring a healthier living environment. 

Are you looking for an asbestos removal company to keep your family safe? Asbestos exposure poses serious health risks, so don’t wait. Schedule a professional inspection with Environmental 911 today. Our experienced team identifies and removes asbestos safely, ensuring your home is free of harmful materials. Call us now at (626) 316-6651 – a safe home can’t wait.