Four Lesser Known Reasons You Might Need Asbestos Removal
Posted on: 12 May 2022
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in many building materials. Despite its benefits, asbestos can be dangerous if it becomes airborne and inhaled. This can cause serious health problems and even death. Asbestos removal is a necessary part of any home remodelling project, but there are other reasons why you might need asbestos removal that aren't as well known.
1. You Might Need Asbestos Removal If You Have Old Electrical Wiring
Electrical wiring was often made with asbestos insulation until the late 1970s or early 1980s before being phased out and banned completely in 2003 by the government for safety reasons. If you have old electrical wiring in your home, it could be covered in asbestos insulation and should be removed prior to any electrical work being done on the property. This includes new wiring installations as well as upgrades or repairs to existing wires and circuit breakers.
2. You Might Need Asbestos Removal If You Have Old Linoleum Tiles
The first reason you might need asbestos removal is if you have old linoleum tiles. These were made using asbestos fibres and can release the material into the air when they're torn or damaged. This can expose anyone who comes in contact with them to potentially harmful levels of asbestos exposure. It's best to leave these types of materials alone and call an asbestos removal contractor if you think they may be in need of removal.
3. You Might Need Asbestos Removal If You Have Older Drywall
Another reason that you might need asbestos removal is if you have older drywall. Drywall was originally made using a form of gypsum that contained asbestos, which was then mixed with paper backing and sand before being used as wallboard in homes across Australia. While most homes today use drywall that doesn't contain this substance (newer versions are made with synthetic materials instead), some older homes still have it on their walls and ceilings
4. You Might Need Asbestos Removal If You Have Old Insulation Around Pipes
You might not even know that you have asbestos insulation in your walls, but if it's old — and especially if it's been damaged or disturbed — it could be releasing fibers into the air. If this is the case, you can reduce your exposure by removing the insulation and having it tested for asbestos. If it does contain asbestos, hire a professional who can safely remove it.
Asbestos is still around in older homes and fixtures today, and it can pose a threat to your health if it is not properly removed. For more information on asbestos removal, chat with a contractor today.
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