Perform Asbestos Testing Before Remodel, Renovation, or when Building Materials are Damaged
Planning on renovating or repairing a building that’s more than 30 years old? Asbestos testing is necessary before you proceed per EPA’s Asbestos NESHAP Standard on residential properties built pre-1981 and all commercial properties regardless of the year built.
Asbestos, which when sealed away in a home can be harmless, is a serious health hazard when disturbed and released into the air. Asbestos can be found in black mastic adhesive in flooring, VCT tiles, ceilings, insulation, drywall, around ductwork, etc. in older homes.
Asbestos has been used as an insulator and fire retardant in building materials since the 1800s because of its resistance to heat and chemicals, its noise insulating properties, and the fact that it doesn’t conduct electricity.
Arizona Total Home Restoration provides expert asbestos testing services for homes & businesses to Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, and the surrounding valley. Contact us today for a free quote.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos has been used as an insulator and fire retardant in building materials since the 1800s because of its resistance to heat and chemicals, its noise insulating properties, and the fact that it doesn’t conduct electricity.
It wasn’t until the early 1970’s that the hazardous qualities of asbestos were discovered and regulations regarding its removal and disposal were put in place.
Where is Asbestos Hiding in my Home?
How Do You Test For Asbestos?
Bulk asbestos samples are cautiously collected and sent to a lab for analysis.
Air samples, samples of potential asbestos-containing materials, and in some situations samples of surface dust are collected. If asbestos is discovered after initial testing, more testing will be done during asbestos abatement and after the cleanup is completed to make sure all traces of asbestos are gone.
Staying Safe Around Asbestos
Do not attempt to handle materials that may contain asbestos. If you find damaged materials that potentially contain asbestos, do not touch them and keep everyone in the house away from the area. Try to prevent the materials from being exposed to drafts that might spread the asbestos fibers into the air.
Asbestos removal is a job for trained professionals. ATH Restoration has the specialized knowledge and equipment necessary. Learn about our Asbestos Abatement process.
Asbestos Health Hazards
Asbestos causes life-threatening health problems including:
- Cancer of the lungs, stomach, and colon Lung Disease
- Lung Disease
- Asbestosis - the inflammation and eventual scarring of the lungs, leading to reduced lung capacity
- Mesothelioma - a cancer of the lungs, chest or abdomen that is always associated with asbestos.
Asbestos only becomes airborne when the materials that contain asbestos are uncovered, disturbed, or improperly handled during removal.
Because the fibers are microscopic, they’re invisible, and there’s no way to know if you’ve been exposed to asbestos.
Trust Arizona Total Home Restoration for professional, thorough asbestos testing, consultation, and abatement services. See photos of our work as asbestos contractors and in removing popcorn ceilings.