ARE YOU LIVING IN
A HOME BUILT
BEFORE 1980?
In Ontario, older homes built prior to the 1980s are more likely to contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Asbestos was commonly used in construction and various household products until its health risks were widely recognized and its use was restricted. Here are areas within older homes where asbestos-containing materials may be found.
What is
ASBESTOS?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that has been used in various industries for its desirable properties such as heat resistance, strength, and insulating abilities. It’s composed of microscopic bundles of fibers that can become airborne and easily inhaled, which poses significant health risks.
Historically, asbestos was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and other industries for purposes like insulation, roofing, flooring, and fireproofing. However, the health hazards associated with asbestos exposure became evident over time.
Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, including lung diseases such as asbestosis (a chronic lung condition), lung cancer, and mesothelioma (a rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart).
Due to its health risks, the use of asbestos has been heavily regulated and restricted in many countries. Efforts are made to safely manage and remove asbestos from buildings and products to minimize the risk of exposure and protect public health.
ASBESTOS
Testing
Sample Collection:
A certified asbestos inspector or technician collects samples of suspected materials suspected to contain asbestos. These samples are collected using specific techniques to avoid fiber release.
Preservation and Packaging:
The collected samples are carefully preserved and packaged to prevent any cross-contamination and ensure the integrity of the samples during transportation to the laboratory.
Laboratory Analysis:
The samples are sent to an accredited laboratory specializing in asbestos analysis.
The laboratory employs various testing methods, including Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), or Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM), to identify and quantify asbestos fibers in the samples.
Analysis and Reporting:
The laboratory analyzes the samples and determines if asbestos is present, what type of asbestos it is (chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, actinolite, or anthophyllite), and the concentration of asbestos fibers in the material.
Interpretation and Recommendations:
Based on the laboratory results, a report is generated indicating whether asbestos is present, its type, and the concentration.
Recommendations for appropriate management, removal, or containment of asbestos-containing materials are typically provided in the report.
ASBESTOS-CONTAINING
MATERIALS
Insulation:
Asbestos was commonly used in insulation materials, particularly in attics and walls, to improve thermal and acoustic properties. This includes loose-fill asbestos, vermiculite insulation, and asbestos-containing batt or blanket insulation.
Roofing and Siding:
Asbestos was used in roofing shingles and siding materials to enhance durability and resistance to fire and weather elements.
Ceiling and Floor Tiles:
Asbestos was used in ceiling tiles and floor tiles for its durability and fire resistance. Vinyl floor tiles and the adhesive used to install them may contain asbestos.
Textured Coatings and Paints:
Textured paints, patching compounds, and decorative coatings on walls and ceilings often contained asbestos to provide texture and strength.
Pipe and Duct Insulation:
Asbestos was commonly used to insulate heating ducts, boilers, and pipes to provide thermal insulation and fire resistance.
Popcorn Ceilings:
Acoustic or “popcorn” ceilings, popular in the mid-20th century, often contain asbestos fibers to improve acoustic properties.
Cement Products:Asbestos was added to cement products such as corrugated cement sheets, roofing, siding, and cement pipe for strength and fire resistance.
Electrical Panels:
Older electrical panels may contain asbestos in the panel’s backing material.
HVAC Ducting:
Some HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) ducts may contain asbestos-containing insulation.
Regions
If you suspect your home may contain asbestos-containing materials, it’s crucial to consult with a certified asbestos professional for testing and evaluation. If asbestos-containing materials are found and need to be removed, it’s essential to hire licensed asbestos abatement professionals to ensure safe and proper handling and disposal. Always prioritize safety and follow appropriate procedures to minimize asbestos exposure risks.
GTA Restoration experts are ready to give asbestos removal services to all following regions:
Ajax
Aurora
Barrie
Bradford West Gwillimbury
Brampton
Brantford
Burlington
Caledon
Cambridge
Clarington
Collingwood
East Gwillimbury
Georgina
Grimsby
Guelph
Halton Hills
Hamilton
Innisfil
Kawartha Lakes
King City
Kitchener
Markham
Milton
Mississauga
Mono
Newmarket
Niagara Falls
Niagara-On-The-Lake
Oakville
Orangeville
Oshawa
PickeringPort Hope
Richmond Hill
Scugog
St. Catharines
Thorold
Toronto
Uxbridge
Vaughan
Waterloo
Welland
Whitby
In Ontario, older homes built prior to the 1980s are more likely to contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Asbestos was commonly used in construction and various household products until its health risks were widely recognized and its use was restricted. Here are areas within older homes where asbestos-containing materials may be found.
If you suspect your home may contain asbestos-containing materials, it’s crucial to consult with a certified asbestos professional for testing and evaluation. With filling out following form our expert Asbestos Removal team call back to you quickly: