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With housing prices as high as they currently are, many people are choosing to forego a newer home and remodeling an older home instead. While this option can be a fruitful and rewarding endeavor, it comes with its own share of dangers. If the home that you are thinking of remodeling is old enough, there is a chance that it could have asbestos in several key locations. Make sure you are aware of the risk and take the proper precautions in order to keep yourself and your family safe.
Where Asbestos Commonly Exists
Because of its temperature resistance properties, home builders often used asbestos in insulation up until the 1950s. This means that could encounter it when you tear down a wall, remove drywall, rip up flooring, or replace ceiling materials.
Asbestos is often present in ducts and pipes around the boiler and furnace of older homes as well. This means that you should be extra careful any time you are working in areas with pipes and ductwork in older homes.
What to Do If You Encounter Asbestos
Asbestos is only dangerous if you disturb the fibers and they become airborne. When this happens, you can breathe in the fibers and do damage to your lungs.
If at all possible, leave any asbestos you find alone. If you must remove it, consider hiring professionals to take care of it for you. As a last resort, wear proper protective gear during and after the job, and get your home tested for airborne asbestos particles before allowing your family to move into the house. Make sure you comply with California’s regulations for disposing of asbestos without a license.
Your top priority is your health and safety, and that of your family. By taking the proper steps, you can help to protect yourself from asbestos exposure even while remodeling a home with asbestos materials in it.
