Asbestos is a naturally occurring silicate mineral composed of long, thin thread-like crystals. When it’s subjected to abrasion or similar type of physical damage, it releases microscopic fibrils. The fibrils quickly become airborne with even the slightest air movement, and if inhaled, they can cause severe lung problems. Once the microfibrils get into the lungs, they cannot get out, and their sharp edges cut the sensitive tissues, causing chronic inflammation and scarring. Long-term or heavy asbestos exposure often leads to very severe illnesses like asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Asbestos is a silent killer. It is often challenging to detect the presence of this hazardous material without asbestos air testing. The fibrils are too small to be visible to the naked eye. The onset of symptoms usually occurs many years after exposure, so it is almost impossible to notice the contamination early without professional tools. There are many places asbestos can hide in your home, especially if you live in an older building. Damaged ACMs (asbestos-containing materials) are the primary source of asbestos contamination in older residential buildings, and hiring a certified asbestos testing company in Toronto will reveal whether your health is under threat.
Why Would Asbestos Be in My Building
Because of its harmful effects on health, the use of asbestos in construction ceased almost entirely after the ban in the late 1980s. However, many buildings in Toronto were built before the ban, and asbestos testing is highly advised to all homeowners with older homes. This hazardous mineral can hide in many innocent-looking materials – floor tiles, popcorn ceiling, roofing materials, concrete, joint compounds and pipe insulation. Any damage to these can release harmful microfibrils and contaminate indoor air. Getting your home tested is the most accurate way to determine if asbestos is present at the premises, so reach out to Inch by Inch Inspections and ask for asbestos air testing.
How Do I Know the Asbestos Air Test is Accurate?
There are many DIY asbestos testing kits available on the market. However, the high likelihood of misuse and improper measuring affect the quality of results of these tests. The only way to be 100% sure that the asbestos air testing was done correctly is to hire a professional asbestos testing company in Toronto. Certified inspectors are trained to recognize the critical areas in the home and collect viable air samples. The two types of professional asbestos air testing that are currently available are:
- Phase-contrast microscopy (PCM) – a pump is used to get the collected air sample through a filter, which is then put under a microscope to detect if the microfibrils are present. This type of testing is fast and cheap but not as precise as the other method because smaller fibrils can get through the filter, and you will get a false negative result.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) – The collected air samples are taken to a certified laboratory. They are bombarded with electrons to differentiate fibers that contain asbestos from those that don’t. This type of testing is very precise, and it is most often performed after the abatement to confirm that it was done successfully.
Inch by Inch offers both types of testing, so if you are looking for a trusted asbestos professional in Toronto, reach out to our trusted, experienced staff and schedule your asbestos testing.
Should I be Monitoring My Air Quality?
Monitoring air quality is paramount during home renovation and demolition projects, as the potential ACMs can be disturbed during such activities and release dangerous amounts of microfibrils. Considering asbestos abatement carries a significant risk of contamination, air monitoring is also performed during such activities to ensure that the work is done correctly. To protect your family and your property from any liabilities that might occur during the abatement, it is advised to hire an asbestos monitoring service that will oversee all activities taken by removal professionals.
Call your trusted experts from Inch by Inch Inspections for any other air quality and asbestos abatement information. Our qualified staff is always ready to provide quality service and make your home a safe and healthy place. Reach out to Inch by Inch Inspections and schedule your asbestos air testing today.