Signs of Poor Air Quality in Your Burlington Home

Poor air quality in the home can be caused by various pollutants, but one of the most harmful ones is asbestos. This naturally-occurring mineral is a silent, slow killer. If inhaled, its microfibers cause inflammation of the lung tissues and permanent scarring. Long-term exposure can result in very serious diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. If there are damaged asbestos-containing materials in and around your home, it is necessary to get asbestos removal in Burlington by Inch by Inch Inspections. 

Many homeowners don’t even realize their homes are polluted until it’s already too late. The harmful asbestos microfibers are invisible to the naked eye and inhaling them doesn’t cause any effects instantly. The first symptoms usually manifest decades after the initial exposure, so it is very difficult to detect the problem in the early phases. The best way to know whether you could be affected by asbestos or other air pollutants is to get air quality testing in your Burlington home. 

Why Is Air Quality Important?

home air quality test Good air quality is a basic necessity for a healthy life. The modern way of living includes a lot of time spent in indoor environments, so it is not a big surprise that indoor air quality has been receiving increasing attention in the last couple of decades. There are many potential sources of pollutants in our homes – from various materials to our everyday habits. Their high concentration in the indoor air can negatively affect health, sleep and mood, and decrease the quality of life. Allergic people, children, the elderly, and people with compromised health are especially sensitive.

Common Sources of Poor Air Quality 

To prevent poor air quality, we need to understand what are the most common sources of indoor air pollution.

1. Poorly Kept heating and ventilation systems 

Dust, molds and various particles can accumulate in the HVAC system, so it is important to change HEPA filters promptly and keep the vents clean. Otherwise, the accumulated pollutants will eventually get released into the air and spread around the home.

2. Pollution by construction materials 

Some building materials, like, particle boards, paints, glues, and similar, contain or emit harmful chemicals. These include asbestos, lead and VOCs. Long-term exposure to these hazardous materials can cause very serious health problems, especially in children.

3. Increase in number of building occupants and time spent indoors 

A lot of home activities we do every day contribute to poor indoor air quality. Steamy showers, cooking delicious meals, maintaining hygiene and certain hobbies (woodwork, painting, etc.) affect air quality by increasing air humidity and emitting potentially harmful chemicals. One problem invites the other, and the long-term excess of humidity soon attracts molds. 

The more inhabitants, the more activities. The more time we spend indoors, the more likely we are to contribute to poor air quality. Either by producing air pollutants, or wearing the materials around us.

Which materials contain asbestos?

Before asbestos was banned in the late 1980s, many homes were built with materials that contain this mineral. Due to its favourable insulating qualities and cheapness, it was commonly used in the construction and manufacturing of various heat-resistant products. The common materials that contain asbestos include:

  • Roof shingles
  • Ceiling tiles 
  • Vinyl floor tiles
  • Paper products
  • Asbestos cement products
  • Steam pipes
  • Loose-fill insulation
  • Gaskets
  • Coatings

Many homes in Burlington were built before the ban, and if you live in an older home it might be a good idea to get air quality testing. Asbestos-containing materials are not harmful if they are not damaged, but time and wearing can take a big toll on them. If you notice any damage to materials suspected to contain asbestos, the safest solution would be to call a professional asbestos removal company. 

Considering the great hazard of this mineral and the long-lasting effects of exposure, safety is the number one priority. An experienced home remediation inspector can estimate the scope of the problem with ease, and provide the safest and most efficient removal. If you are looking for a trusted, certified asbestos removal company in Burlington, reach out to Inch by Inch Inspections. Friendly inspectors of Inch by Inch are always ready to provide quality service and make your home safe and healthy. Call today to schedule your inspection.

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