Demystifying Asbestos Removal: What Homeowners Need to Know
Are you planning a home remodeling project? Before jumping in and getting started, you may need to have an asbestos inspection required by the state of California. If the materials in your home contain asbestos, remodeling and renovation of any kind could put your health and family at risk. Find out more about the dangers of asbestos and asbestos testing requirements during home renovation in CA.
The Dangers of Asbestos
Asbestos, once hailed for its versatility and heat-resistant properties and a main staple in construction materials, is now considered a notorious hazard due to its carcinogenic nature. Exposure to asbestos fibers, typically found in construction materials like insulation, tiles, and pipes, poses severe health risks to humans. Inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers can lead to various respiratory issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer. Even minimal asbestos exposure can have long-term consequences. The microscopic asbestos fibers can remain dormant in the body for years before manifesting into life-threatening illnesses.
The danger of asbestos extends beyond occupational settings and household exposure is exceptionally common. Asbestos-containing materials in older homes or buildings are known to release toxic fibers into the air when disturbed during renovation or demolition. Therefore, if your home is suspected of containing asbestos, DIY projects can have dangerous outcomes for all of the occupants in the house. Efforts to mitigate asbestos exposure should be taken, which can involve rigorous testing, proper handling and disposal of contaminated materials, and an understanding of the dangers associated with this hazardous substance.
How Do You Know If Your Home or Structure Contains Asbestos?
Homes built primarily between the 1930s and 1970s are more likely to contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). However, even homes built in the 1980s may contain ACM materials because these materials were still in use during the period. If you are unsure of whether your home could contain asbestos, it is important to work with a home remodeling company familiar with asbestos to carefully evaluate the materials in your home. The only reliable way to know if your home contains asbestos is to have the material properly tested.
How We Handle Required Asbestos Testing During Home Remodeling
When you hire Oasis Builders for home remodeling, we take every step to bring your vision to life. However, asbestos testing may be required depending on the age of your property. Before the project begins, we will conduct an asbestos inspection of ceilings, ducts, and floors to determine if the fibers are present and need to be mitigated during the remodeling project. Reach out to Oasis Builders to discuss your home remodeling plans, and the asbestos testing requirements, and get a free estimate for your project.