Everything you need to know about Asbestos.
In this comprehensive post, we have collected the top 11 Questions Asked About Asbestos. You’ll learn;
- Where it can be found,
- How to test for it at home,
- What it was used for,
- and many other questions answered
So if you’ve ever wondered about asbestos, you’ll love this post!
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals made up of thin, microscopic fibers that occur in rock and soil.
What does Asbestos look like?
The fibers appear blue, brown, or white under a microscope, but they are generally too small to see with the naked eye. They are also very light and can stay in the air for days.
How to Test for Asbestos?
If using an at-home test kit, follow the below steps:
Step 1 – Close all windows/doors and turn off heating/cooling systems and fans.
Step 2 – Cover floors with protective sheeting. Also, wear protective clothing (overalls, gloves, goggles, face masks).
Step 3 – Fill a spray bottle with water and spray down the area you’re testing and the plastic sheeting.
Step 4 – Remove a large sample of the problematic area with a chisel and immediately spray with water
Step 5 – While holding the sample with a wet wipe, place it into a plastic bag along with the wipe and seal the bag. You’ll also note the time/date and area it was collected from.
Step 6 – Place the sealed bag into another bag and seal it. For added security, add a layer of tape to the bag. This will be sent to an asbestos testing company.
Step 7 – Thoroughly clean the area with a vacuum. Once finished, place the filter and pack it into a plastic bag. Clean out the vacuum the best you can with a wet wipe or rag, put it into the same bag, and seal it.
Step 8 – Restore the area in which you took the sample.
Step 9 – Dispose of your protective clothing and sheet. Put it into a plastic bag and seal it. Once all possibly contaminated items have been closed in a plastic bag, you can toss them into regular garbage.
If you do not feel comfortable getting the sample on your own, the expert Rock Environmental crew has been trained and certified to perform asbestos testing and abatement.
When was Asbestos used in homes?
Overall, asbestos production began during the 1800s and decreased in the late 1970s after certain products and uses were banned, and federal regulations were put in place.
When was Asbestos banned?
EPA issued a final rule in 1989 banning most asbestos-containing products, but this was overturned by a court in 1991. As a result, the ban only applies to new uses of asbestos initiated after 1989 and only specifically bans three products: flooring felt, roll board, and corrugated, commercial, or specialty paper. A law was introduced in 2002 to extend the ban, but it was not successful.
Where is Asbestos found?
Common asbestos-containing materials include:
Vinyl Floor Tiles
Siding & Shingles
Insulation
Paint
Household Appliances
Electric Blankets
Fire Resistant Clothing
Vehicle Brakes
Antique Toys
Makeup Products
Is Asbestos in Popcorn Ceiling?
No, not anymore. However, in homes built before 1979, popcorn ceilings were made with anywhere from 1% to 10% asbestos.
What is asbestos used for?
Asbestos fibers were used mainly for strength and durability. Additionally, it was found to be fire resistant and was used in protective clothing and heat resistant materials.
How to tell the difference between Cellulose and Asbestos installation
Asbestos fibers are microscopic, while cellulose fibers are larger. Check HOW TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CELLULOSE AND ASBESTOS INSULATION for a more detailed look into cellulose and asbestos.
When was Asbestos first used?
The use of Asbestos dates as far back as 4,500 years. Evidence has been found in Finland, which shows people were using it to make pots and other cooking utensils. However, commercial production of asbestos insulation began in 1879.
How much does Asbestos removal cost?
The average cost for asbestos abatement can range anywhere from $1,500 to $25,000, depending on how much asbestos there is. The abatement contractors at Rock Environmental have all been HAZWOPER and OSHA trained to safely remove asbestos from your home. The risk of asbestos exposure can be high when making updates to your older home, so to be safe, call the team at Rock Environmental. Additionally, our team offers 24/7 emergency response!
