How to Test for Asbestos in Your Home: Essential Tips

There are a few different contaminants that can create major health issues for building occupants, and one of the most well-known here is asbestos. How do you test for asbestos if you’re worried it’s present in your home or building?

At Aerolite Consulting, we’re proud to offer the best asbestos testing and asbestos inspections around Salt Lake City, in addition to our various other home inspection services. Here are some basics on why asbestos is a threat that needs to be taken seriously, some of the possible signs or indicators that asbestos may be present in your home or building, and how to test for asbestos in the home and resolve this issue.

Why Asbestos is a Serious Threat

For those unaware, asbestos is a type of mineral fiber that was commonly used in building materials from the 1930s to the 1970s due to its strength, heat resistance and affordability. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers can become airborne when disturbed or damaged, and when these fibers are inhaled, they can cause serious health issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.

It’s important to note that while asbestos is still not completely banned in the US, its usage has significantly decreased since the 1970s. However, many older buildings may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) which pose a threat if not properly handled.

Signs of Asbestos Presence

Some signs that could indicate the presence of asbestos in your building include:

• The age of the building: As mentioned, asbestos was commonly used in construction until the 1970s. If your building was built before this time, there is a higher chance that it contains ACMs.
• Visible damage to materials: If you notice any damaged or deteriorating materials such as insulation, flooring, or ceiling tiles in your home or building, it’s important to have them tested for asbestos immediately.
• Previous renovation or repair work: If any renovations have been done on an older building without proper precautions and testing for asbestos beforehand, this increases the risk of exposure.

If you are unsure about the presence of asbestos in your home or building, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and have a professional asbestos inspection conducted.

Never Move or Disturb the Area

If you suspect that your home or building may contain asbestos, it’s important to never attempt to remove or disturb any materials yourself. This can release dangerous fibers into the air and put you and others at risk of exposure. Instead, contact a certified asbestos inspector who has the proper training and equipment to safely test for and handle ACMs.

Testing for Asbestos

A professional asbestos inspection involves taking samples of suspected materials and having them analyzed in a laboratory. If asbestos is found to be present, an abatement plan will need to be developed by a qualified professional in order to safely remove the material from your home or building.

During an asbestos inspection, an inspector will identify any possible materials in the area that may or probably contain asbestos. From here, a tester takes samples from each of these identified areas, then returns them to a lab for testing. These two parts of the process used to be separate and carried out at different times; today, it’s more common for them to be done together.

At Aerolite Consulting, our team has years of experience conducting thorough asbestos inspections and providing accurate and reliable results. We understand the seriousness of asbestos exposure and prioritize the safety of our clients.

Is Asbestos Still a Risk for Newer Homes or Materials?

Because of the decrease in asbestos usage over the years, newer homes and materials are less likely to contain ACMs. However, it’s still important to be aware of potential risks and have proper testing done before any renovations or repairs.

What About Asbestos Disclosures?

If you’re buying or selling a home, you may be wondering about asbestos disclosures. The laws surrounding asbestos disclosures vary by state, but in general, sellers are required to disclose any known presence of asbestos in the home. As a buyer, it’s always wise to request an asbestos inspection before finalizing the purchase.

Asbestos is a serious threat that should never be taken lightly. If you suspect its presence in your home or building, it’s important to have a professional asbestos inspection conducted and follow proper procedures for removal and abatement if necessary. At Aerolite Consulting, we’re dedicated to keeping homes and buildings safe from asbestos exposure through our thorough testing and inspection services. Contact us today for more information or to arrange an appointment anywhere in Salt Lake City!