Are you buying (or have recently bought) a home in the Twin Cities? Be aware that even though it hasn’t been used in home construction and remodeling for over 30 years, many homes built before the 70’s still contain asbestos materials. Finding and removing in your home is important for your overall well-being.
Asbestos in the Home: What to Do?
If you’re out in the housing market looking at all of the wonderful homes out there, you may be shocked to know that many older houses contain asbestos. If you’re looking to keep costs low, you may have decided to skip the inspection and go straight for buying. The detection of this harmful substance is usually only found when a qualified inspector goes through to learn more about the home, so it might come as a shock when you find out about the asbestos problem later after the purchase has been made.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos was used in the past to make many different items such as clothing, shingles on a roof, car parts, and insulation around pipes. Asbestos is a natural material that is made from a silicate-based component. It is able to resist fire, which made it a popular building component. However, the US government declared it a carcinogen because the fibers can get into the lungs and cause a cancer known as mesothelioma. Many asbestos-containing products were banned in the 70’s and 80’s, but asbestos can still be found throughout attics and basements in older homes. (For more detailed information on asbestos, visit the EPA site.)
Removing Asbestos From Your Home
The basic rule of thumb for most asbestos is that if you leave it alone, it will leave you alone. If you’re trying do some remodeling and you find it crumbling, you may want to have it removed by a professional. EPA and building regulations require it be done by a trained asbestos abatement contractor. Removing or encapsulating the asbestos can be a costly endeavor, with costs ranging somewhere in the thousands, and insurance policies usually do not cover this type of removal. When abatement workers remove asbestos, they will normally quarantine the area and then dispose of it safely.
If you’re having asbestos removed, get quotes from different companies to compare prices. Once you hire the contractor, get proper documentation and photos showing that the asbestos was removed according to federal regulations. Do not attempt to remove the asbestos yourself; this could pose serious danger to your health.
Being educated about asbestos can allow you to feel more confident when it comes to any home renovations if you’re dealing with an older home.
Iron River Construction is a full-service remodeling contractor providing interior and exterior home improvement services in the Twin Cities area and outlying communities. If you have questions about remodeling an older home, please give us a call.
