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Asbestos and Your Home

 
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Asbestos, once praised for its durability and fire-resistant properties, is now widely recognized as a serious health hazard. Commonly used in homes built before the 1980s, asbestos can still be found in many residential properties today. While it poses little risk when undisturbed, damaged or deteriorating asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can release microscopic fibers into the air, posing a serious threat to human health.

What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of thin, fibrous crystals. Due to its resistance to heat, fire, and chemicals, as well as its insulating properties, it was extensively used in construction materials, including:
  • Insulation (attics, walls, pipes)
  • Floor and ceiling tiles
  • Roofing shingles and siding
  • Textured paint and patching compounds
  • Cement sheets and pipe insulation

​How Asbestos Becomes Dangerous
Asbestos becomes hazardous when its fibers are released into the air and inhaled. This can happen during renovations, demolitions, or when materials naturally deteriorate. The fibers are incredibly small and can stay airborne for long periods, making them easy to inhale and difficult to detect.

Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

Exposure to airborne asbestos fibers is linked to several serious health conditions, especially when exposure is prolonged or occurs at high levels:
  1. Asbestosis
    A chronic lung disease caused by the scarring of lung tissue due to asbestos fibers. Symptoms include shortness of breath, persistent cough, and chest tightness. It can worsen over time and lead to disability.
  2. Lung Cancer
    Inhaled asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, especially in smokers. Symptoms may include coughing, chest pain, and weight loss.
  3. Mesothelioma
    A rare but aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Mesothelioma is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure and has a very poor prognosis.
  4. Other Cancers
    Asbestos exposure is also linked to cancers of the larynx, ovaries, and possibly the gastrointestinal tract.

Who Is Most at Risk?
  • Homeowners or residents in older homes with deteriorating asbestos materials.
  • DIY renovators who unknowingly disturb ACMs.
  • Workers in construction, demolition, and home repair without proper protective measures.
  • Family members of exposed workers (via secondary exposure from clothing or equipment).

How to Identify Asbestos in Your Home

Asbestos cannot be identified just by looking at it. If your home was built before the 1980s, there's a chance it contains asbestos. Common suspect areas include:
  • Popcorn ceilings
  • Vinyl floor tiles and their backing
  • Pipe and duct insulation
  • Cement siding
To be certain, samples must be tested by certified asbestos professionals using specialized lab equipment.

What to Do If You Suspect Asbestos

Do not disturb suspected materials. Instead, follow these steps:
  1. Hire a licensed asbestos inspector to assess your home and take samples.
  2. If asbestos is found and in good condition, it may be best to leave it undisturbed.
  3. If removal is necessary, hire a certified asbestos abatement contractor. Improper removal can worsen the risk by releasing more fibers into the air.
Preventing Exposure
  • Do not sand, drill, or cut materials that might contain asbestos.
  • Seal off affected areas if damage is suspected until professionals can assess.
  • Educate yourself if you’re buying or renovating an older home.

​Final Thoughts

While asbestos can be a hidden danger in many homes, awareness and proper management can significantly reduce the health risks. If you suspect your home contains asbestos, take action by consulting licensed professionals rather than attempting to handle it yourself. Protecting your family’s health starts with understanding and addressing the risks responsibly.

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New York State Home Inspection License 16000107847
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