Asbestos is a common, fibrous material used mainly before 1970 in many household items including insulations, ceilings, floor tiles, furnace and fireplace gaskets and even automobiles. Now days there is very little asbestos being used and if so, it’s in a very strict manner away from harm. But homes built between 1930 and 1950 carried a lot of asbestos in the walls and other construction materials and it should be cared for and checked regularly and thoroughly.

Most of the time asbestos is not of any concern unless it is disturbed. Typically asbestos can remain in a home undisturbed for years as long as no one comes in contact with it or touches it often. But this may be hard as even small vibrations, wind currents through a home or water damage can release the fibers in the air.

This is where asbestos can be dangerous. It’s the fibers from the asbestos that can easily travel through the air and if inhaled can cause numerous health issues.

The most common health concern is asbestosis. This is where the fibers are inhaled and our bodies try and respond to the fibers by releasing an acid to dissolve the particles. The problem is when this acid does more than just eliminate the fibers and it goes farther down into the body and can cause scar tissue to form on the lungs and breathing issues.

The next step up from this is Mesothelioma. This condition is when the fibers travel to other parts of the body and start attacking the lining of the organs. This can be very painful and possibly fatal.

The third and most harmful is lung cancer. This is greatly increased if the person smokes or has poor breathing as it is.

Removal of Asbestos can be a very tricky process and one not to be done alone. If you suspect you have asbestos that needs to be removed make sure you get a certified professional to test and examine the situation ahead of time. Many times it doesn’t need to be removed at all as long as it is undisturbed.

Those that are professionals in removing it must seal off the area to create a negative air pressure situation so the fibers don’t fly around. The fibers must be dampened and special care must be taken when removing the asbestos including hazmat suits, respirators and special equipment.

Knowing what your home is made of can make you and your family a lot healthier now and over time. If you suspect you may have asbestos or you are suffering from unknown breathing issues in a home built prior to 1970 and especially between 1930 and 1950 feel free to contact us for a home inspection in the Dayton and Troy Ohio area. We want to keep you safe and make sure you are aware of any dangers that may be in your home.