You’re picking out tile patterns for the bathroom because you’ve finally saved up enough money to remodel. Maybe you envision tearing down one of the walls to add more space or changing up the cabinets for a more modern look because, after all, what’s the harm in some light renovating before inviting house guests over for dinner, right?
But wait — while some nice new linoleum flooring could liven up a lackluster space, tampering with building materials might also lead to lung damage and increased health hazards.
How so? Blame asbestos.
Dangerous when inhaled, this mineral fiber could be taking a toll on your health without your knowledge, and scheduling an asbestos survey could be just the thing you need to take a big sigh of relief, hazard-free.
Not sure if you need one? We’ll explain…
What’s Hiding in Your Home?
While asbestos was primarily used in the 1970s, that might lead you to believe that you’re off the hook when it comes to breathing in those harmful fibers. However, the truth of the matter remains that asbestos is still not banned in the United States, meaning that even with regulations, invisible contaminants could still be lurking in your home.
The question you may be asking now, however, is where exactly asbestos might be hiding, considering it’s not easy to spot with the naked eye.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), here are a few materials to watch out for:
- Floor tiles such as vinyl, linoleum, asphalt, and rubber
- Steam pipes, boilers, and furnace ducts
- Textured paints and patching compounds
- Cement roofing, shingles, and siding
- Attic and wall insulation
Taking Action Against Asbestos
Before you consider living in your car to avoid the potential dangers of asbestos, you might be relieved to know that there is little to no risk as long as the asbestos remains undisturbed.
That being said, a test might be necessary if you are planning on remodeling your home or your home has damaged building materials, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Specifically, sanding any aforementioned supplies such as tiles or textured ceilings, as well as water damage from flooding, could release toxic particles into the air.
Also, considering that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has labeled asbestos as a known human carcinogen with cancer-causing capabilities, it is critical that you get a test when these circumstances present themselves.
Making A Plan To Fend Off Fibers
Maybe you’re preparing to hire a contractor to begin tearing down walls, or unexpected water damage has taken its toll on your home. Either way, scheduling an asbestos test could save you — and your lungs — from long-term damage.
That’s why, here at Luce Air Quality, we offer high-quality asbestos surveying services where our team will not only inspect and identify existing asbestos, but will also determine the specific location and provide you with accurate testing reports per regional regulations.
You can trust our team of indoor environmental experts to provide you with uniquely diversified knowledge, skill, and services. We’ll help you to determine the next steps towards creating a healthy home, so contact us at 904-803-1014 to schedule your asbestos survey today!