A Quick Look at Asbestos in Homes
Ah, the classic ’70s home. You’ve probably pictured cozy evenings by the fireplace, a sprawling family room, and maybe even a retro kitchen complete with wood cabinets. But what if there’s something else lurking beneath the surface – asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its strength, durability, and thermal resistance. It was widely used in construction materials during the 1960s and 1970s, thanks to its remarkable properties that made it ideal for building everything from homes to schools. Think of it as your house’s superhero – strong enough for a skyscraper and flexible enough to withstand the elements.
However, this “superhero” status has a hidden drawback: asbestos is incredibly dangerous when disturbed. It can release microscopic fibers that are easily inhaled, leading to serious health problems.
Here’s where things get tricky: Asbestos wasn’t always monitored or acknowledged for its potential harm. The EPA and other authorities only started recognizing the risks in the 1970s – after decades of asbestos use! They were shocked by what they discovered.
The good news is that many properties built before the 1980s, especially those from the 60s and 70s, might have contained some form of asbestos. So, if your house was built in 1978 or earlier, it’s crucial to be aware.
What Can Be in a 1978 Home?
Here are some common sources of asbestos you could encounter in a 1978 home:
* **Insulation:** As mentioned before, insulation was a staple for many homes built during that era. You might have encountered it in the walls, ceiling, or attic, often wrapped around pipes or electrical lines.
* **Roofs:** Roofing materials, especially shingles made with asbestos-containing cement, were common in this period. These materials could still be present under a roof covering, even if replaced over time.
* **Waterproofing and Caulking:** Asbestos was used extensively in the past to seal cracks or gaps around plumbing pipes, windows, doors, and even baseboards. This could indicate the presence of asbestos-containing materials hidden within your walls.
* **Floor Tiles:** Flooring tiles commonly employed during that time also might have contained asbestos. You’ll likely discover these in older bathrooms or kitchen areas.
* **Other Products:** As mentioned earlier, certain household products such as fireproofing agents and paints might contain traces of asbestos.
How to Figure it Out?
The best way to determine if your home harbors asbestos is to conduct a professional inspection. A qualified inspector can identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials through various methods:
* **Air Sampling:** This technique involves collecting air samples from specific areas suspected of having asbestos fiber contamination.
* **Visual Inspection:** An expert will carefully examine the surfaces and potentially disturbed areas for any signs of asbestos, such as discoloration or a powdery texture.
* **Testing Procedures:** These procedures involve sending samples to laboratories where they are tested for the presence and type of fibers.
If it turns out that your home contains asbestos, don’t panic! It’s just a matter of handling it with proper care.
Safety First: Handling Asbestos
Asbestos is a hazardous material. Even if you think the levels are low or have no symptoms, it’s vital to keep yourself and others safe by following these guidelines:
* **Avoid Disturbance:** Never attempt to remove asbestos-containing materials on your own as this can release dangerous fibers into the air. Always consult a certified professional for any work involving asbestos
* **Wear Protective Gear:** When working with asbestos, it’s essential to wear appropriate protective gear like masks, gloves, goggles, and long sleeves to prevent exposure.
* **Designated Handling:** As professionals work to remove or contain the material, ensure proper ventilation and containment measures are in place to minimize fiber release into the environment.
Remember that asbestos is a serious health hazard, and dealing with it requires professional expertise. Always prioritize safety above all else.
Get Professional Help
The process of identifying and handling asbestos can be complex and daunting, but remember you don’t have to tackle it alone. A qualified asbestos inspector is your best bet for navigating this challenging situation: they can identify the presence of asbestos in your home, assess its potential risk levels, and suggest appropriate remediation measures.
So, when faced with a 1978 house, remember that asbestos might be lurking beneath the surface. But with the right knowledge, professional help, and precautions, you can ensure safety for yourself and your family.
Let’s keep it safe!
