Asbestos is a heat-resistant mineral that was widely used in the 1970s for flooring, insulation, and roofing in most residential and commercial spaces. It was one of the most affordable materials known to have high sound absorption, natural resistance to heat, and incomparable longevity. Asbestos made building homes much more economical due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. And because it can also be used in various areas of the house, it easily became one of the top material choices among homeowners and home builders back then.
Several years after its construction benefits had been discovered, medical professionals noticed that a lot of people who lived in areas where the material was being mined either died early or developed a lung disease now known as asbestosis. This discovery has then led many countries all over the world, such as Australia, to ban its usage and manufacture. Since then, asbestos has earned a bad reputation, which still has not changed up to the present time.
Ever since homeowners found out about the life-threatening effects of asbestos in the body, it became necessary for them to have all traces of asbestos substances and materials removed from their homes. This movement has led to the rise of professional asbestos removalists who can help remodel or demolish houses built with asbestos.
Typically, you wouldn’t know if you have asbestos in your property as it is usually discovered during renovation projects. If you are considering buying a new home or if you suspect traces of asbestos in your current home, the first thing that you should do is to have it inspected. An asbestos removal company or professional can do it for you. Several samples will be taken from various areas of your home and will be sent to the lab for testing. If asbestos is found, there are typically two options: to not touch or remove the asbestos if that part of your home is still in good condition or to remove it as soon as possible if it’s in bad condition to prevent more problems down the line.
Removing asbestos is something that you cannot undertake on your own. There are specific rules and regulations that need to be adhered to as it is a potentially life-threatening matter. Hiring a professional asbestos removal company is more appropriate as they have all the safety equipment to remove asbestos without risking their health as well as your family’s. They are also highly trained to handle any kind of asbestos material, including those tiny asbestos fibres. It is absolutely necessary to call in a qualified professional to assess and remove asbestos from your house to prevent dispersing asbestos dust into the air.
Michelle Ching is from About the House – Asbestos Removal & Demolition, an Australian-based company that specialises in professional asbestos removal and disposal of bonded asbestos products. They offer their services to residential, commercial, and industrial properties across Sydney, Central Coast, and Newcastle.