Asbestos is a naturally-occurring silicate mineral that consists of long, thin, thread-like crystals, usually white or gray in colour. Each crystal is further composed of numerous microscopic fibrils. This mineral was widely used in construction in the previous century due to its favourable insulating and fire-resistant qualities. However, when asbestos-containing materials are subjected to abrasion or other types of damage, they release the microfibrils into the surrounding air. If these are inhaled, they will stay in the lungs permanently and cause constant inflammation of the tissues, which often results in the development of serious diseases. For this reason, the use of asbestos in construction was widely limited or completely banned. If you are unsure whether your home has asbestos materials or not, the best case is to contact a professional company, like Inch by Inch inspections for asbestos testing in Burlington.
Where Can I Find Asbestos at My Home?
Due to its excellent insulating and fire-retardant properties, asbestos was widely used for the production of various materials:
- Steampipe insulation
- Loose-fill insulation
- Vinyl floor tiles
- Ceiling tiles
- Roof shingles
- Textured paints
- Asbestos cement
Even though the use of asbestos has been banned for a few decades already, there are still many homes in Burlington that were built before the ban. If you live in such a home, you might want to think about asbestos testing in your Burlington home. Inspect your home for damaged building materials. If you find any traces of whitish wool-like fibres protruding from the material, it is highly probable that your home requires asbestos abatement.
Why is Asbestos Removal in Burlington So Important?
Airborne asbestos microfibrils are a great health hazard. They are so small and light that even the slightest air currents can disturb them. Once they end up in the lungs, they cannot get out, so they continuously cut the lung tissue and cause inflammation. This usually results in scarring, and with long-term exposure, the development of very serious diseases, like asbestosis, mesothelioma and other types of cancer.
Symptoms of exposure usually occur after a couple of decades, so asbestos contamination can easily fly under the radar. In order to be one hundred percent sure that your home is asbestos-free, the best choice would be to get professional asbestos testing and removal.
What Does Asbestos Removal in Burlington Include?
A certified inspector first takes samples of the suspected materials. The samples are then analyzed in the lab to properly estimate the scope of the issue. Once the results arrive, the inspectors will write a plan for the abatement and establish the work area. The contaminated rooms are sealed so that asbestos microfibrils are not dispersed around, and the rest of the area is covered with plastic sheets. After the setup, the inspectors will start to remove asbestos-containing materials and dispose of them in leak-proof containers. When all the materials are removed, the entire area is thoroughly cleaned with a HEPA vacuum to collect the remaining microfibrils.
Exposure to asbestos microfibrils is a big health threat, so if you have even the slightest doubts that your home is polluted, act immediately. Reach out to trusted asbestos testing and removal professionals in Burlington – Inch by Inch Inspections. Certified, friendly staff of Inch by Inch is always ready to provide high-quality service and a pleasant experience. Call today to schedule your inspection.