Jenny Jackson is the webmaster of Asbestos Products In The Home. You are welcome to reproduce this article on your family or home improvement related web site, as long as you reproduce the article in full, including this resource box and link to her website.
If your home was constructed before the 1970s, it may contain asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral made up of long, spindly fibers that are strong and flexible. Asbestos fibers are also very heat and flame resistant, so until the potential health effects were accepted, asbestos was used widely in a range of products, particularly those used near heat or flames.
Home building products that often contained asbestos prior to the 1970s, when asbestos started to be substituted, include pipe, duct and boiler insulation, ceiling panels, floor tiles, roofing materials, textured paints, electrical wiring, ironing board pads, pot holders and artificial fireplaces.
Asbestos is not a hazard while it is in good condition, but if asbestos becomes crumbly and the fine dust-like fibers become airborne, they can cause serious health effects, 15-40 years down the track. Asbestosis results from scarring of the lungs, caused by asbestos fibers lodging there. Asbestos exposure can also cause mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the chest, heart or abdominal lining.
If you believe you have asbestos-containing products in your home, don't panic. Asbestos is not always easy to identify. The only reliable way to know if you have asbestos is to have it sampled and tested by professionals. You will also need professional advice on what to do with it, if it is asbestos. Removal may be tempting, but this is often where the greatest danger arises, due to the disturbance of the materials. It may be better to enclose or encase the materials instead. Removal or containment will need to be done by professionals trained and certified to do so safely, and who know appropriate disposal procedures.
- Related Videos
- Related Articles
- Ask / Related Q&A
- Can Atlanta Roof Hail Damage Result in Replacing an Entire Roof?
- Asbestos Risk: Do You Have Asbestos in Your Home?
- Roof Stains Cause Insurance Policy Problems
- Risk Anaysis Case Study
- Atlanta Roof Repair, How to Pick a Roofer
- Top Tips To Maintain Your Roof
- Things to Do When Looking for Roofing Services Contractors
- The New Trend in Residential Metal Roofing
An Outline on Glass Railings and Their Advantages
By: Sabrina Jose | 27/11/2009Every home should be constructed in a protective way. The open spaces in the home should be protected by some sort of barrier. Railing is one such barrier, which is used in balconies, staircase and other outdoor spaces in the home. It consists of horizontal bars and supports. Glass, aluminum, wood, stainless steel and iron are some of the materials used for railing purpose. Now, let us see how glass railing decorates your surroundings.
An Outline on Glass Railings and Their Advantages
By: Sabrina Jose | 27/11/2009Every home should be constructed in a protective way. The open spaces in the home should be protected by some sort of barrier. Railing is one such barrier, which is used in balconies, staircase and other outdoor spaces in the home. It consists of horizontal bars and supports. Glass, aluminum, wood, stainless steel and iron are some of the materials used for railing purpose. Now, let us see how glass railing decorates your surroundings.
Does Your Home Have Enough Curb Appeal?
By: Oswald Melman | 26/11/2009Whether you are planning on selling your home in the near future or whether you plan on living there for the rest of your life, it’s never a bad idea to boost your house’s curb appeal. There can be no doubting the fact that a large part of a home’s value is determined by the first impression it causes from the street upon pulling up alongside the curb: many real estate agents can attest to the fact that curb appeal is a make-or-break factor for most home sales.
Energy-Efficient Storm Windows
By: Oswald Melman | 26/11/2009With a stalling economy appearing to rebound more slowly than people had hoped, many homeowners are looking for ways to save money on heating costs moving into the winter. Budgetary restraints are a stark reality for almost everyone, however, meaning that homeowners are seeking out home improvement projects that offer a return on their investment, while at the same time keeping that investment to a minimum.
Improving Your Home With Garden Paving
By: Pamela Jewson | 26/11/2009Improving your home with garden paving can be a very rewarding undertaking. It adds a totally new dimension to your patio or garden. It enables you to escape from the old boring slabs of yesterday, and add an artistic touch and feel to your home and garden surroundings. There are experts available with some good tips and excellent advice as well.
Beautify And Protect Your Home With Garden Walling
By: Pamela Jewson | 26/11/2009Most people like privacy, especially if you live in a very built-up neighborhood. It's all very well keeping on good terms with your neighbors but when you feel as though you're a little too exposed, you can create privacy by erecting some attractive garden walling. In addition, garden walling will also help protect you against burglars.
What Are The Advantages To Paving Stones?
By: Pamela Jewson | 26/11/2009There are many different kinds of paving stones available and there are multiple uses. Due to different shapes, colours and sizes that they are available in, you are sure to find them to meet your needs, whether you are looking for something traditional or beyond that to make your path, garden or driveway your own.
Asbestos Risk: Do You Have Asbestos in Your Home?
By: Jenny Jackson | 13/09/2008 | RemodelingHomes constructed before the 1970s are likely to contain asbestos materials. Find out why that may be a concern and what you should do about it.
Room Remodel: How to Create a Room Without an Addition
By: Jenny Jackson | 13/09/2008 | RemodelingInexpensive ways to create living areas out of under-used spaces in your home.
Five Ways to Stop Snoring
By: Jenny Jackson | 12/09/2008 | SleepLearn five natural ways stop snoring and get a good night's sleep.
How the Didgeridoo Can Help Your Snoring
By: Jenny Jackson | 12/09/2008 | SleepSwiss researchers have discovered that learning to play the native Australia instrument, the didgeridoo, helps tone the upper airways, reducing or eliminating snoring.
Cat Affection: Can You Make Your Cat Cuddly?
By: Jenny Jackson | 23/07/2008 | PetsSome cuts are cuddlier by nature while others need some encouragement to enjoy human contact. Find out how to choose a cuddly cat, and how to encourage a cat to enjoy cuddles more.
Is it Okay to Grieve for My Pet?
By: Jenny Jackson | 26/04/2008 | PetsBecause pets live for a shorter time than us, pet owners are likely to experience the death of a pet or a number of pets during their lifetime. You are just as likely to grieve for your pet as any other family member.
How Can I Keep My Cat Off the Kitchen Counter?
By: Jenny Jackson | 26/04/2008 | PetsThere are a number of reasons why cats are attracted to kitchen counters and there are lots of things you can do to deter them.
Is Your Cat Fat?
By: Jenny Jackson | 26/04/2008 | PetsFatter cats may be cuddlier, but they don't live as long as average weight cats. It is important to recognize if your cat has a weight problem.