Dangers DIYers Need to Consider from Asbestos

Did you know over 3,000 manufactured products contain asbestos? Why is this important? Mesothelioma, a deadly cancer with a short survival rate that is linked to exposure of asbestos. If you are thinking about remodeling a home built prior to 1980, you need to educate yourself on how to proceed safely. This post is dedicated to the effort of “Clean Living” a topic hugely important to DigthisDesign and to keeping people safe.

I myself purchased a home built in the 70’s, luckily for me the home had been renovated by the previous owners and the materials that were replaced were on the list of products manufactured with asbestos. What you need to be aware of is what products were used in home construction with the deadly toxin.

Home Products Where Asbestos Could Be Found

1. Siding Shingles and roofing may contain asbestos cement.
2. In the 1930’s through the 50’s, lot’s of home insulation was manufactured containing asbestos.
3. Textured paints and patching compounds were used on wall and ceiling joints through 1977 and banned after that date.
4. Be aware that artificial ashes and embers, for gas fireplaces could contain asbestos.
5. Stove top pads may have asbestos.
6. The old woodburning stoves use to be protected with asbestos paper, millboard or cement sheets containing asbestos.
7. Beware of vinyl floor tiles, backing on vinyl sheet flooring and adhesives, could be toxic with asbestos.
8. Old pipes might be coated with asbestos or covered with an asbestos blanket or tape.
9. Insulation anywhere there are oil or coal furnaces and door gaskets

For a complete list of products, go to Mesothelioma.com.

What to Do If You Think Your Home Might Contain Asbestos

If you are wanting to remove a material that could be on the list, you need to contact an ASBESTOS TESTING COMPANY. If you think you’ve found asbestos in your home, it is recommended to not disturb it as long as it is in good condition. Undisturbed material in good condition does not pose a threat because it is not releasing asbestos fibers. Asbestos is dangerous when fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs, so trying to remove it would be very dangerous without an ASBESTOS ABATEMENT PROFESSIONAL. My husband and I are big DIY-ers and for those of you who want to save money doing it yourself, it is not worth it! ALWAYS use a professional and proceed with caution when remodeling an old property. You and your family’s life depends on it!

I recommend visiting The Consumer Product Safety Commission, for further information on the safe removal of asbestos from the home. DigThisDesign believes in keeping toxins out of the home and helping to educate on the dangers that might be lurking unexpectedly in your remodel. When I was contacted by the director of community outreach for Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, to spread the warning, I felt it my mission to do so!

Images Courtesy of Canva.