Guest Post: Asbestos Prevention

This article was written for us by Joe Lederman of the Mesothelioma Center. 

Highly regarded for its fire, heat and versatile qualities, asbestos was used in construction applications throughout the 20th century. Often appearing as insulation, piping, roofing and flooring, homes and buildings could still contain asbestos materials if they were built prior to 1980.  This should not make you jump out of your seat because asbestos exposure is easily preventable by taking simple precautions.

If you locate any suspected asbestos, most experts advise to leave it alone. If you are having home renovations, performed, do not panic. A home inspector can determine the best course of action. In most cases, the best action is no action in regards to asbestos.

Long and frequent exposure to airborne asbestos fibers may lead to the development of a rare lung ailment known as mesothelioma. Diagnosis of these forms of asbestos lung cancer has been a difficult task because mesothelioma symptoms are so similar to other, less serious conditions. Manufacturers of asbestos obtained medical evidence of its corrosive qualities but continued shipping the substance anyway, leaving workers and homeowners exposed on a frequent basis.

The Health Canada Organization offers assistance and information in the prevention, disposal and removal of asbestos. They are federally responsible for helping citizens maintain and improve health at home and the work place. The inspection and removal of toxic substances must be performed by licensed abatement contractors who are trained in handling dangerous materials. They work under federal regulations to ensure no health concerns arise from improper removal.

Once the area is asbestos free, environmentally sustainable materials should be considered including cotton fiber, cellulose and lcynene, water based spray polyurethane foam that can reduce energy costs annually.

These green options have the same beneficial qualities as asbestos, but without the toxic components. 

***Note from Sheldon – Once upon a time ago in Alberta it was mandatory for us to disclose if a property contained asbestos in a PDS (property disclosure statement).  Problem is that many people did not even know they had it in their home.  Food for thought this is one area where using a REALTOR can benefit you as most sellers aren't even aware of what to disclose.  I've even had some sellers who have sold privately because they had to disclose some MLD's (material latent defects) but decided they'd prefer to pretend ignorance.