For several decades, asbestos was used in home construction because the product was relatively inexpensive, was a great insulator, and was highly resistant to fire. Unfortunately, because of the cancer-causing agents found in asbestos, it is very dangerous and should be removed from your home. Unfortunately, many homeowners do not realize that asbestos is in their homes. Here are a few of the most common places you might find asbestos on your property.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring sheets and tiles were a very popular option for homeowners because the product was inexpensive and easy to install. Unfortunately, asbestos was a commonly used material in the manufacturing of vinyl flooring. If the vinyl flooring in your kitchen and bathroom is several decades old, there is a chance the flooring's backing was manufactured with asbestos.
If you are considering removing the vinyl flooring before a home upgrade, it is critical to have the flooring tested for asbestos. If there is asbestos in the vinyl flooring, hiring a professional team to remove the vinyl and safely dispose of the product is critical.
Popcorn Ceiling
In addition to being an eyesore, that popcorn ceiling in your home might actually contain asbestos. Because of the fire-resistant qualities of asbestos, it was a popular option to create a unique look in mid-century homes. If you have popcorn ceiling that was installed several decades ago, there is a chance that asbestos was used in the creation of the product.
Although it might seem like an easy chore to remove the asbestos yourself, it is critical that the product is removed by a professional. A professional abatement company knows that you must encapsulate the ceiling before carefully removing the product and then dispose of the ceiling properly.
Roofing and Siding
Fiber cement siding was manufactured from a mixture of Portland cement and asbestos. When the two ingredients are combined, it creates a sturdy finished product that is resistant to fire. If you have fiber cement siding that was installed a few decades ago and the product is beginning to degrade, you need to talk to a professional abatement team to discuss your options.
Additionally, some types of older fiber cement roofing material might also contain asbestos. If the roofing material is not damaged, it is typically not as dangerous. However, if the siding and roofing materials begin to degrade, there is a danger of asbestos exposure, and the products should be professionally removed immediately.
From siding and roofing to that unattractive popcorn ceiling, there are several places around your home that might contain asbestos.
Contact a company like Asbestos Inspections Inc. DBA Capital Abatement for more information.