It is common knowledge that asbestos is extremely hazardous. When asbestos is present in the form of very fine particles that are airborne and subsequently inhaled, it poses a health risk. These tiny fibers, which are too small to be visible to the naked eye, can enter the lungs and get trapped there, potentially leading to the development of various diseases.
In this article, we look at why asbestos inspections are crucial for older homes and all the factors that surround the subject of asbestos inspection and asbestos removal in Mississauga.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos refers to a collection of naturally occurring fibrous minerals known for their ability to withstand high temperatures and corrosion. Due to these characteristics, asbestos has found application in various commercial products and construction, including insulation, fireproofing materials, automobile brakes, and wallboard materials. Inhaling asbestos particles can heighten the likelihood of various severe illnesses such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Asbestos exposure may also elevate the risk of developing digestive system cancers, such as colon cancer.
Why Older Homes Are at Risk
These minerals have the capacity to create durable, resilient, and fire-resistant products. Before 1990, asbestos was primarily utilized to insulate buildings and residences from cold weather and noise, as well as for fireproofing purposes. It was only after the discovery that asbestos was hazardous to health that the government made it a law not to use asbestos in the construction of homes. It is for this reason that older homes prior to 1990 are usually found to have asbestos-containing materials. For these reasons, it is very important to have an asbestos inspection in older homes.
Importance of Asbestos Inspections
Various techniques are employed to detect asbestos minerals. Typically, phase contrast polarized light microscopy (PLM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are utilized for this purpose. Additional methods that may be used include X-ray diffraction (XRD) and potentially infrared spectroscopy (IRS). In plain terms, an air quality test is conducted to see what percentage of air contains asbestos fibres.
Determining whether a material contains asbestos isn't possible through visual inspection alone. Proper identification necessitates testing conducted by an accredited asbestos laboratory. When uncertain, it's best to adhere to the precautionary principle: if there's suspicion that a material may contain asbestos, handle it as if it does, and seek guidance from licensed professionals in asbestos removal in Mississauga, such as Inch By Inch Inspections.
The benefits of getting an asbestos inspection include:
- Asbestos inspection is very affordable and worth the expense.
- Early detection prevents harm to others.
- Stress relieving and peace of mind.
- Adds value to your property if no asbestos is found.
The Dangers of Ignoring Asbestos
Inhalation of asbestos fibres can result in their retention within the lungs for an extended duration. Gradually, these fibres can accumulate, triggering scarring and inflammation, ultimately impacting respiratory function and potentially causing severe health complications.
Being exposed to asbestos elevates the likelihood of experiencing:
- Lung cancer.
- Asbestosis, resulting in irreversible lung impairment.
- Mesothelioma, an uncommon cancer affecting the chest and abdominal linings.
- Cancer in the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and throat (larynx or oropharynx).
- Lung lining scarring.
- Pleural effusions, characterized by fluid accumulation around the lungs.
This is why it is extremely important to address asbestos issues as soon as possible.
Asbestos Removal
It is never a good idea to attempt asbestos removal on your own. This is because of the health risks associated with removal as well as possible laws and regulations you could break upon doing it yourself. Experts such as Inch By Inch Inspections tackle the problem professionally. The asbestos-containing materials are wetted down using specialized chemicals. This prevents more asbestos from being released into the air. The materials are then carefully disposed of using specialized equipment and taken to appropriate disposal sites. The air is then filtered and cleansed using HVAC systems. Assure your safety by calling in trained and licensed professionals to do this job for you, protecting your home and loved ones.
Work with Trained Experts In Asbestos Removal
Having investigated the importance of asbestos inspections in older homes, we can see just how important these inspections are. It is imperative to keep yourself and your family safe from asbestos exposure as the health risks can be detrimental to quality of life. From asbestosis to lung scarring and possible cancer, these illnesses are not to be taken lightly. We encourage you to have an inspection done by licensed professionals, Inch By Inch Inspections. This will assure you that your home is asbestos-free, giving you peace of mind and knowing your home and its occupants are safe.