Key Takeaways:
- Asbestos is a natural mineral used in industries for centuries. It comprises long, thin fibers resistant to heat, fire, and chemical damage.
- These properties make asbestos an ideal material for use in various applications. Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
- As a result of the health risks associated with asbestos, its use has been banned or restricted in many countries around the world. Despite the ban, asbestos is still used in some industries and can be found in many older buildings.
- If you suspect that your building contains asbestos, it is crucial to have it tested by a professional before undertaking any renovation or demolition work.
- Priority Roofing offers roofing services to customers in Denver, CO, and the surrounding areas.
The word “asbestos” may not concern many people, but if we say “cancer-causing insulation,” you would better understand what we’re talking about. Asbestos is a hazardous material that was once commonly used in construction. It was typically used as an insulation material for roofs, walls, and other areas of homes or buildings.
The dangers of asbestos were first recognized in the late 19th century, but its use continued until the mid-20th century. In the 1970s, asbestos began to be heavily regulated in the United States and Europe, but its use is still allowed in some parts of the world.
If your roof inspection reveals asbestos, don’t panic! A few steps can protect yourself and your family. Priority Roofing will discuss the history of asbestos, its uses in construction, and the health implications of exposure. We will also cover what needs to be done if asbestos is discovered in your building.
History of Asbestos
In the early 20th century, asbestos became widely used in various construction materials, such as pipe insulation, floor tiles, and shingles. It was also used in many other products, including automobile brake pads and clutches, gaskets, and cement. Asbestos fibers are strong and heat-resistant, making them an ideal choice for insulation and fireproofing.
The use of asbestos rose sharply in the mid-20th century as more and more products were made with this mineral. By the 1970s, however, concerns began to emerge about the health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
These concerns gradually reduced the use of asbestos in the U.S. in the late 1970s. In 1989, EPA issued a rule banning the use of asbestos in certain products
, and in 2006, the EPA issued a ruling that would have prohibited all uses of asbestos. Still, a federal court later overturned this ruling. Asbestos is still used in the country, though the EPA heavily regulates it.
Related: Learn about asbestos laws and regulations.
Despite its well-known health risks, asbestos is still used in some construction materials due to its fire-resistant properties. If you suspect you have been exposed to asbestos, you must see a doctor as soon as possible, as exposure can lead to serious health problems.
Health Implications of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure can occur when the mineral is mined, processed, or used in products. Its exposure can lead to several health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Asbestos exposure may cause mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive cancer affecting the lungs’ lining. Asbestosis is a chronic lung ailment caused due to inhaling asbestos fibers.
People exposed to asbestos may also be at increased risk for lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. There is no safe exposure level of asbestos, and even brief exposure can be harmful.
Asbestos exposure is a severe health hazard; you must see your doctor for an evaluation if you suspect asbestos exposure. If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, there are treatments available that can help improve your prognosis.
What to Do If a Roof Inspection Reveals Asbestos
If you have asbestos in your roof, the first thing you should do is have it inspected by a qualified professional to assess the risk. They can determine whether the asbestos is in good condition or needs to be repaired or removed.
Also, read our blog on the roof inspection checklist.
Once you have chosen a company to do the work, they will need to obtain a permit from the local authorities before they can begin. The permit process can take several weeks, so planning is vital.
Once the permit has been obtained, the company will schedule a time to execute the work. The work can take several days, depending on the size of your roof and the extent of the damage.
The removal company will send a team of certified asbestos technicians to your establishment to assess the situation. Once the assessment is complete, the removal company will develop a plan to safely and effectively remove the asbestos from your property.
The removal process typically begins with removing any insulation or other asbestos materials. Next, the removal technicians will wet down the area to be removed to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air.
Once the area is wet, the removal technicians will use specialized equipment to remove the asbestos-containing material from your property. After the asbestos-containing material has been removed, the removal company will dispose of it according to local, state, and federal regulations.
Finally, the removal company will conduct a post-removal inspection to ensure that all the asbestos has been successfully removed from your property.
Once the work is completed, the company will submit its final report to the local authorities, who will issue a compliance certificate. This certificate must be kept on file if you ever sell your property.
Contact your local roofing contractor or Asbestos Awareness Organization for more information if you have any general questions about asbestos or roofing.
Need Roofing Services in Denver, CO?
Keep us in mind if you need roofing services in Denver, CO. Priority Roofing is a full-service commercial roofing company having more than 15 years of experience. We have a reputation for excellence. We are proud to be among the most trusted names in the roofing industry and take our work very seriously. If you would like to schedule a free inspection, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you again for your time, and have a great day!
