Chances are no homeowner or building owner wants to find out that they have asbestos on the property, as this material is very dangerous when you inhale the fibers. However, as dangerous as it may be, there are many common misconceptions about the substance and its removal. Note some questions and concerns you may have about asbestos removal and then discuss these with a removal contractor so you know you're getting accurate information about the material and the process. 

1. My home has blown foam insulation, so there is no asbestos present, right?

Asbestos hasn't only been used to insulate attics but may be found in insulating materials around plumbing pipes and boilers. The material has also been used in adhesives used for floor tiles and in patching or joint compounds used on drywall and other such materials. If your home or building has blown foam insulation or fiberglass insulation, note that you may still have asbestos on the property. 

2. Is all asbestos dangerous?

Asbestos itself is dangerous when inhaled no matter how it's been used on your property. However, note that it may be difficult if not impossible to inhale its fibers if it's been mixed with another substance that keeps it inert. For example, if asbestos is in the adhesive used for your floor tiles, you're not going to inhale those fibers as they don't become loose and airborne. 

That being said, remodeling or renovating work that involves scraping up those tiles, removing joint compound that contains asbestos, or tearing apart insulation around plumbing pipes can then make the substance dangerous as this can loosen the fibers and allow them to become airborne. 

3. Is an inspection the only way to determine if asbestos is in the home?

You can often take a sample of material that you think is asbestos and send it to a lab that will test it. While this may be very affordable and easy to you, note that you need to be very careful if you decide to take this sample yourself. You don't want to disturb the material and allow any of it to become airborne and you don't want to inhale it while taking a sample. You also need to ensure you use a secure material for storing it while it's in transit; ask the lab you've chosen to send you a kit which should include a plastic bag with a secure closure for your sample.

Share