If you are a homeowner, you know that maintaining your property is a full-time job. But while you might be keeping an eye out for leaky pipes or drafty windows, there is a silent danger lurking in the walls of many properties that often goes unnoticed until it is too late.
Did you know that if your home was built before 1978, some of the building materials used during construction could contain asbestos?
At EnviroTech Solutions, we are dedicated to exceptional quality and safety. We want to ensure you have the expertise needed to protect your family and your investment. Here is what you need to know about the risks of asbestos in older homes.
The 1978 Cutoff: What You Need to Know
The year 1978 is a critical benchmark in the construction and environmental industry. Before this year, asbestos was a standard addition to many building materials due to its fire-resistant and durability properties. While regulations have since changed, millions of homes across the country still retain these original materials.
If your property dates back to the mid-20th century or earlier, you cannot afford to ignore the potential presence of this hazardous material.
Common Hiding Spots for Asbestos
Asbestos isn’t just found in insulation; it was mixed into a wide variety of finishes and structural elements. According to our remediation experts, three of the most common materials that may contain asbestos include:
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Joint Compound: Used to seal seams between sheets of drywall.
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Drywall: The wall panels themselves often contained asbestos fibers for added strength.
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Plasters: Decorative and acoustic plasters (like popcorn ceilings) are frequent offenders.
Because these materials look just like their modern, non-toxic counterparts, it is virtually impossible to identify asbestos with the naked eye.
The Serious Health Risks
Disturbing these materials during a renovation—or even through general wear and tear—can release microscopic fibers into the air. When inhaled, these fibers can cause severe, life-altering lung diseases, including:
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Mesothelioma: An aggressive form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs.
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Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, leading to long-term breathing difficulties and scarring.
Don’t Chance It—Call the Experts
Your home should be a safe haven, not a health hazard. If you are planning a renovation or simply want peace of mind regarding your older home, professional testing and asbestos abatement are the only ways to be sure.
At EnviroTech Solutions, we are proud to be your trusted partner for environmental solutions. We are fully equipped to take on your environmental remediation needs with confidence and expertise.
Ready to ensure your home is safe? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call EnviroTech Solutions today at 321-758-9787 or visit us online to schedule your consultation.