Asbestos Information
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used primarily as insulation material in and around property components. It was also added to some building materials in the Chicago area to provide added strength and flame resistance. The problem with asbestos is that it has been shown to cause lung cancer and mesothelioma in individuals that were exposed to large amounts of free-floating asbestos fibers in the air. These health conditions often did not become apparent until around 30 years after the actual asbestos exposure. Because of the health hazards of asbestos fibers, its use in insulation, paint, and many other finished materials was banned in the 1970’s. If you have additional concerns about prospective property conditions, contact us for professional visual inspection services. Additional information on asbestos and asbestos hazards is available from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at:
U.S.E.P.A. ASBESTOS
What you need to know about asbestos
Chicago homes and commercial properties built prior to the 1970’s could contain asbestos in insulation, plumbing, paint, wall joint compound, and other building materials. However, as long as the materials are in good condition, they may pose no danger. Asbestos becomes a significant health threat if the asbestos fibers are in a "friable" or decaying condition, and can be released into the air and inhaled.
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How can asbestos be removed?
If your property contains friable asbestos, you have two options: removal of the material or sealing of the asbestos material in-place to prevent it from releasing fibers. Either option requires the help of a trained and licensed asbestos professional. Renovations or demolition of materials containing asbestos can easily release the asbestos fibers into the air. National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) regulations requires the owner of any property containing asbestos building materials to get an asbestos inspection prior to any demolitions or renovations of that property.
How do I know if my property contains asbestos?
If you suspect your property or a property you are considering buying may contain asbestos, consider having a thorough visual inspection performed. Your Stem to Stern Inspector may be able to give you a timely heads-up regarding potential Asbestos issues. We often find asbestos materials in older homes and commercial properties; the asbestos can be found in pipe insulation, heating and cooling systems, floor tiles, exterior siding, and insulation, among other areas. If you have concerns about the condition of your prospective property, contact us for professional visual inspection services.
STEM TO STERN INSPECTION SERVICES
LOCAL: (815) 521-1215
E-MAIL: inspect4me@sbcglobal.net
