In a city like Vancouver, in order to save some money, homeowners and business owners are resourceful when it comes to DIY household or office jobs. Simple renovation works can be done easily by any person with the right tools. However, in older buildings and homes, those simple tasks can expose you and your family and workers to asbestos, that can turn to develop serious health consequences. The problem with asbestos exposure lies on the reveal time of its symptoms, that are not showcased immediately, but may develop asbestos-related diseases as asbestosis or mesothelioma cancer over time. In those cases, safe asbestos removal is the priority.
Do not DIY
The application of asbestos in construction materials had a boost in the 19th century, because of its resilient nature. This material is fire and water resistant, soundproof, strong, and compared to others is cheap. Asbestos can be found in popcorn ceilings, piping, drywalls, fireplaces, floor tiles and other common materials of commercial buildings and homes constructed before 1990.
The toxicity of the material wasn’t known until 1924 when Nellie Kershaw, a British woman died from asbestosis, becoming the first dead due to asbestos exposure. After her dead, studies found that among those exposed to asbestos-containing materials for long periods of time, pulmonary diseases can be developed decades later. Despite the discoveries, asbestos was widely used through the 1980s.
Safe Asbestos Removal
The danger of asbestos come when the material is breathed during a long period of time. Combined with dust and other small fragments, asbestos can be inhaled or digested without even knowing it, settling inside the body and eventually developing a disease.
If you live or purchased an older house, or you work around or in an old building, it is necessary for prevention to review popcorn ceilings, drywall, fireplace, among other risky places that may be contaminated with asbestos materials. Even if you are wearing goggles and mask, never try to remove or clean up any item that may contain asbestos. Renovation and demolition projects can have long-term health consequences if you don’t know how to handle it properly.
Leave the Work to Professionals
Safe asbestos removal should always be handled by professionals, who really know how to take care of the dangerous material to ensure your peace of mind. If you want to eliminate the potential asbestos danger from your home or building, contact A&D Demolition and Asbestos Removal for a free on-site quote! Our team of professionals counts with over 10 years of industry background and will ensure the job gets done efficiently, and with the highest industry standard of safety and cleanliness.