There are a few contaminants that are particularly well-known for being found in homes and requiring removal, and one of the single most familiar here is asbestos. Asbestos creates several hazards to health and is dangerous to be in the presence of for prolonged periods, and one of the top resources for preventing such exposure is safe, effective asbestos testing.
At Aerolite Consulting, we’re here to offer an extensive range of environmental testing and contaminant testing as part of our overall home inspections, including asbestos testing, mold testing and more. Here are some basics on what asbestos is, why it’s problematic in any home, the kinds of materials that may contain asbestos, and how asbestos can be safely and effectively tested for to ensure it’s not a problem in any home you’re purchasing or occupying.
What is Asbestos?
For those who are just learning about asbestos, it’s important to understand what exactly this substance is. Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring minerals that are made up of long, thin fibers. These fibers were once widely used in various building materials due to their strength and resistance to fire, heat, and electricity.
Unfortunately, however, the same qualities that made asbestos desirable for building materials also make it incredibly harmful to humans. When inhaled, these fibers can become lodged in the lungs and cause a number of serious health problems over time.
Why is Asbestos Dangerous?
There are several reasons why asbestos is dangerous, but one of the biggest concerns with this substance is its ability to cause cancer. In particular, exposure to asbestos has been linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma (a rare cancer affecting the lining of the lungs), and other types of respiratory cancer.
Additionally, asbestos fibers can irritate and damage lung tissue, leading to difficulty breathing and a host of other respiratory problems. This is why it’s so important to have asbestos removed from your home if it’s found to be present.
What Materials May Contain Asbestos?
One of the tricky things about asbestos is that it was once widely used in numerous building materials, making it a potential danger in many homes even today. Some common materials that may contain asbestos include:
- Insulation (both in walls and attics)
- Roofing
- Flooring tiles
- Ceiling tiles
- Pipes and ductwork
Problems With DIY Asbestos Testing
While you’ve likely seen a number of DIY asbestos testing kits available for purchase, these kits typically aren’t as accurate and reliable as professional testing services. Additionally, attempting to collect samples of asbestos yourself can be incredibly dangerous if you don’t have the proper protective equipment.
Furthermore, even if you do collect a sample yourself, you’ll still need to send it off to a lab for testing; this can be time-consuming and costly. For these reasons, it’s always best to leave asbestos testing to the professionals.
Professional Asbestos Testing Services
Instead of relying on a DIY kit, your best bet is to trust in professional asbestos testing services like those offered by Aerolite Consulting. With our state-of-the-art equipment and trained professionals, we can quickly and accurately test for the presence of asbestos in your home so that you can take any necessary steps towards remediation.
Don’t let something as harmful as asbestos go unchecked in your home. Instead, be sure to trust in the professionals at Aerolite Consulting for reliable and thorough asbestos testing services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or for more information about our testing process!
