In homes built prior to 1975, asbestos is most commonly found as thermal insulation on basement boilers and pipes. Unfortunately, it can also be found in a myriad of other household materials including:
• Blown-in attic insulation • Vinyl floor tiles • Glue that attaches floor tiles to concrete or wood • Some forms of linoleum • Window caulking and glazing • Roofing material • HVAC duct insulation • Siding material • Plaster • Fiber cement siding • Corrugated heavy duty 8'x4' panels • Some forms of paint and water pipes.
The mere presence of asbestos in your home is not hazardous. Generally, material in good condition will not release asbestos fibers however, disturbing it may create a health hazard where none existed before. The best thing to do with asbestos material in good condition is leave it alone. The danger comes from asbestos material that has been damaged over time. Asbestos that crumbles easily if handled, or that has been sawed, scraped, or sanded into a powder is likely to release asbestos fibers and create a health hazard. If you suspect a part of your home may contain asbestos, check periodically for tears, abrasions or water damage.
If you discover slightly damaged material, limit access to the area and do not touch or disturb it. If asbestos material is more than slightly damaged, or if you are going to make changes in your home that might disturb it, professional repair or removal is required. Only contractors licensed by the province to perform asbestos abatement activities should undertake its repair and removal.
Call us for assistance at 506-778-1020