Checking for Asbestos in Your Home

If you are concerned about asbestos exposure you are not alone. Many individuals wonder if they have been exposed, and if so, what they can do to help protect their health. If you think that you have been exposed to asbestos or are looking for ways to prevent an exposure, look no further. We will go over some of the health problems that arise from asbestos exposure, and what can be done to prevent them.

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used for a variety of different applications. Many homes may have this material in their insulation, as it is a fire retardant. Once exposed, individuals can inhale the microscopic asbestos particles and take them into their lungs. Once there, the fibers can cause lung cancer. If prolonged exposure occurs, an individual can also develop cancer in the chest cavity and abdomen.

It is important to note that many individuals have experienced brief exposure and been just fine. The fine asbestos particles are difficult to see and get rid of, so it is common for them to remain in their air for long periods of time thus increasing the risk of cancer. Smokers are at an increased risk for side effects due to exposure.

If you think that your home may have asbestos there are several places that you want to look. It is important to remember that products today do not contain the fiber, only things built in the 1970's or earlier.

- Steam pipes, boilers, and furnace ducts could be insulated with an asbestos blanket or asbestos paper tape. If the fibers become damaged or are repaired improperly, they could lead to exposure.

- Resilient floor tiles- the backing on many vinyl sheet flooring and adhesives could contain asbestos. Sanding the tiles or scraping them could release the fibers.

- Cement, millboard, and paper that were used as insulation around furnaces and wood burning stoves. Repairing or removing these appliances could stir up the fibers.

- Door gaskets- in furnaces, wood stoves, and coal stoves.

- Sound proofing or decorative material sprayed on walls and ceilings. Sanding, drilling or scraping the material could be harmful.

- Cement roofing, shingles, and siding. This usually only cause a problem when sawed, drilled, or cut.

If you think that you have asbestos in your home, don't panic. If the material is good condition, you can leave it alone. It is only when these materials are disturbed that there is a problem. If you find a damaged area- discard it using asbestos gloves and a facial mask. Your local health or environmental officials will be able to walk you through the proper disposal procedure. Always check with them when beginning any remodeling job.

Remember, the only way to find out if something contains asbestos is to look at it under a microscope. Enlist the help of a professional, and let them handle the details. They are trained in such removal procedures and can help ensure the safety of your family and loved ones.

Kasi Jones is a freelance health writer and contributing author to Asbestos Center - a site providing free information on asbestos and mesothelioma.

---

The Health Benefits Of Drinking Water - Is Bottled Drinking Water Healthier Than Filtered Tap Water?

Water is a key ingredient in a healthy diet and... Read More

Acting As Your Own General Contractor When Building Your Dream Home

This article is intended for the DIY (Do It Yourself)... Read More

Log Homes - Is a Log Home In Your Future?

Many people dream about a log home in their future... Read More

A Place For Everything And Everything In Its Place

Tax season is over...The spring holidays have passed... Hopefully by... Read More

Types of Table Saws

A table saw is one of the most popular pieces... Read More

Planning Your In-Wall Speaker System

So you've finally decided to get your favorite music throughout... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Understanding Your Local Planning Officer - They are Only Human

This time of year often sees an explosion in new... Read More

Plastic Applied to the Picnic Table?

There are many styles of picnic tables on the market,... Read More

House Plans ? Where To Start

You have found the perfect lot on which to build... Read More

Let?s ?Clear the Air? Shall We?

What can you do to "clear the air" indoors, at... Read More

Allow Me to Introduce You to the Fungus Family

What exactly is mold? There are over 100,000 different kinds... Read More

Repairing Your Own Machine Components

Many industrial concerns have workshops of their own. For the... Read More

The Simplicity of Gel Fireplaces

Nothing makes your home more welcoming than the warmth and... Read More

Buying The Right Bed Sheets For Your Bed

You spend a lot of your life in your bed... Read More

Why You Should Get A Patio Awning

In these days of climate change, the UK summer is... Read More

Manhatten Paving-Asphalt Paving Seal Coats

Why should you even consider sealing your asphalt driveway?Seal your... Read More

Spring Home Projects in Northern New England

As I sit on a plane in route from Chicago... Read More

Electric Radiant and Floor Coverings

If the decision of what type radiant heating system to... Read More

Reviewing and Evaluating Laminate Floors

Since the introduction of laminate flooring into the US in... Read More

How to Choose a Freezer for Home

The average household freezer is a silent slave. It operates... Read More

Painting and Decorating Tile

Ceramic tile can be beautiful and elegant. But it can... Read More

Asphalt Paving Driveway Maintenance Tips

Asphalt paving or Hot Mix Asphalt is typically what one... Read More

Does Your Home Need Concrete Waterproofing?

Many areas of your home can benefit from concrete waterproofing.... Read More

Getting the Power to Control

One of the advantages of using machines to control processes... Read More

Can You Buy Luxury Home Brands Online and Save - Worry Free?

Are you frustrated with the high prices you've been quoted... Read More

Family Fun ? Is Swimming In A Safe Pool

Family fun is one of the most important things you... Read More

The Right Bathroom Accessories Will Make Your Bathroom Unforgetable

Bathrooms aren't just about the basics but are about the... Read More

How to Select the Best Laminate Flooring for You

Hardwood flooring - its' traditional look is almost timeless, its'... Read More

How to Replace the Rollers on Your Patio Sliding Glass Glass Door

Hiring a professional to replace your rollers could cost you... Read More

Measure Your Window for Verticals and Horizontal blinds, Wood blinds, Faux Wood Plantation Shutters

Here are five important things to remember.1. Use a steel... Read More

Tips To Improve The Quality Of Your Outdoor Space And Patio

It's easy to get overwhelmed trying to figure out just... Read More

Installing Vinyl Replacement Windows In A Wood Frame Opening

When we left off last week, we had removed the... Read More

Make Your Home Secure

The following list offers some inexpensive ways to make your... Read More