If your home was built prior to the mid-1980s, you need to be aware of asbestos. Asbestos was used in a wide range of building materials before that time. After discovering that airborne asbestos fibres caused severe health issues, they stopped using them in construction materials. If your home is older, you must think about asbestos when considering any home upgrade or modification.
Progressive Environmental in Vancouver has three common places where asbestos might be in your home:
The exterior of your home
Asbestos is extremely resistant to fire or heat, so builders commonly used asbestos-containing materials on home exteriors. As roofs typically only last around twenty years, it’s pretty uncommon to find shingles that still contain asbestos. However, it is still something to think of if your roof is older. Asbestos was also commonplace in a range of siding and cladding materials, as well as insulation products. Read more about where asbestos might be lurking in your home. https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/9-places-asbestos-may-still-be-lurking-in-your-home-51798
Older vinyl tile or linoleum flooring
Flooring is one of the more common places that homeowners can find asbestos, especially if their flooring is older than the mid-’80s. Vinyl floor tiles have a relatively high chance of containing asbestos and should always be inspected by a professional. Same with older linoleum flooring products.
Opening a floor or damaging it can potentially release fibres into the air, potentially causing harm. Often, homeowners choose to install new flooring over asbestos flooring without any hazard. However, you should hire professional flooring installers to ensure the asbestos is sealed right. They’ll also be careful to keep the asbestos flooring undisturbed. Otherwise, have it removed safely and professionally by Progressive Environmental.
Popcorn ceilings
Popcorn ceilings installed before the mid-1980s could potentially contain asbestos. Before the mid-80s, builders would apply a coating to the ceiling that contained asbestos. Installers applied it using either a sprayed-on technique or textured paint. Get your home inspected by a professional who can test it to determine whether or not asbestos is present. If they find asbestos, you can seal the ceiling or have it removed by professional asbestos abatement professionals.
Asbestos Removal in Vancouver
When it comes to upgrades in an older home, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Disturbing asbestos during home renovations can cause severe health issues for anyone exposed. Hiring professionals for testing and removal is the right decision. Progressive Environmental has the experience, and extensive training in asbestos removal that can make your home safe for your family and your next home remodel.