Asbestos Renovations: Things to Consider

Are you thinking of doing some DIY renovation work? Before you reach for the hammer, it’s essential to know if your home contains asbestos. As a general rule, most building materials that were installed between the mid-1950s and the end of the 1970s are likely to contain asbestos. This is because asbestos was prevalent at the time due to its insulative effects, affordability and the fact that it couldn’t catch on fire or melt quickly. Due to this, there are now companies dedicated to removing or encapsulating asbestos, so no more people have to suffer from its effects. If you’re worried about asbestos renovations, be sure to give us a call on 0412 314 588 or get in touch online for a free quote on residential asbestos removal services.

Asbestos renovations: What you need to know               

Why should you be cautious around asbestos?

If asbestos is present, you should know that the material can cause severe illness if it enters the body. Asbestos fibres can be breathed in; for example, if you demolish a material constructed with asbestos-containing material, causing fibres to be released. Therefore, it’s important to conduct a thorough asbestos inspection to ensure that you don’t damage surfaces that release fibres.

What are the dangers of asbestos renovations?

The risk is more likely to increase if you’ve had prolonged exposure to asbestos or were young when first exposed. However, you can also develop asbestos-related diseases after just one-time exposure. The most common illness incurred is asbestosis, which is a chronic lung disease. The deadliest disease caused by asbestos exposure is mesothelioma, which can initially resemble several other diseases in the early stages. As well as this, being diagnosed with mesothelioma so early means you’re at an increased likelihood of developing lung cancer, asbestosis and benign pleural disease as well. Mesothelioma is almost always fatal and typically occurs decades after the exposure.

Mesothelioma isn’t just a disease that affects tradespeople anymore. Homeowners are increasingly exposing themselves to the amounts of asbestos found in household materials when undertaking activities like the removal of asbestos roofing. As there is no safe level of asbestos exposure, it can still affect people long after they’ve come into contact with it.

How can you tell if your home has asbestos?

You will not be able to identify asbestos by sight, feel or smell. This is why you must have an accredited company take a sample before any action is taken. Though asbestos was popular for many decades, it’s been banned since 2003. If you suspect that you have asbestos in your home, call Myers Asbestos today for a risk-free inspection.

Where is asbestos usually located?

It’s great to think about renovating your home, but that can bring with it danger from asbestos. Though most commonly located in home siding, such as vinyl and asbestos cement products, it can also be found in roofing systems like asphalt roofs or shingles. The good news is you can get this potentially fatal substance removed by certified asbestos removal professionals who are educated about the location of the hazardous material and trained in the removal of asbestos roofing.

Arrange an inspection today

We hope our blog on asbestos renovations blog has given you some tips on what to do. If you’re unsure if your home contains asbestos, be sure to give us a call so we can ensure that all of the asbestos material in your home is removed or encapsulated. You can call on 0412 314 588 or get in touch online for a free quote and a member from our asbestos removal services team will be in touch shortly.