Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in construction materials due to its durability and heat-resistant properties. However, it's now known to be a significant health hazard, with prolonged exposure causing a range of respiratory diseases, including mesothelioma and lung cancer. Despite it being federally banned in 2018, asbestos can still be found in many buildings. If your residential or commercial property was built before the mid-1980s, contact Inch By Inch Inspections for asbestos testing in Mississauga and the Greater Toronto Area. Following removal, we'll conduct air quality testing in Mississauga to ensure all traces of asbestos are eradicated.
If you're concerned about the presence of asbestos, you're not alone. Keep reading to learn more about asbestos in the air and how to avoid exposure.
What Causes Airborne Asbestos?
When asbestos is undisturbed or non-friable, it doesn't pose any health risks. However, it becomes dangerous when it's disturbed, causing the fibres to become airborne. It's hard to know how and when it becomes airborne, though. Asbestos becomes airborne through activities that disturb and damage the materials it's in. For example, if you're changing your floor tiles, it could cause asbestos to become airborne. If you knock down walls, change insulation, or change the shingles on your roof, that may also cause asbestos to become airborne. Before you start renovations, reach out to Inch By Inch Inspections for asbestos testing in Mississauga and the surrounding area. We'll conduct comprehensive asbestos testing, removal, as well as air quality testing in Mississauga
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials
Common asbestos-containing materials include insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, air ducts, pipes, and roofing products, like shingles. For properties constructed up until the mid to late 20th century, asbestos may be widespread throughout several building materials. While the use of asbestos declined as its health effects were realized, it still may be prevalent in newer properties as well. Before demolishing any common asbestos-containing materials, contact a professional for asbestos testing services.
Risks of Airborne Asbestos
When asbestos becomes airborne, it has the potential to linger in the air for up to three days. After that, it generally settles on the floor or on the walls. However, any gust of wind or air movement could cause it to become airborne again. Airborne asbestos fibres are impossible to see with the naked eye, making it hard to know if you've been exposed to it.
Dangers of Asbestos Exposure
Being exposed to asbestos may cause long-term, serious health implications. Common asbestos-related illnesses include asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, and other respiratory issues. When someone is exposed to asbestos, the symptoms related to exposure don't appear until about a decade later.
How to Avoid Asbestos Exposure
When dealing with asbestos, prevention is critical. Before you start maintenance, demolition, or renovations, especially around popular asbestos-containing materials, contact Inch By Inch Inspections, your trusted restoration company, for an asbestos inspection. Once asbestos is discovered and tested, our team will conduct safe and comprehensive asbestos removal and air quality testing.