WHAT IS ASBESTOS?

Asbestos is a microscopic mineral fiber naturally found in rock and soil that has remarkable heat resistance and insulating properties. However, airborne fibers can cause hazardous health problems when inhaled.

HOW CAN ASBESTOS AFFECT MY HEALTH?

When asbestos is disturbed–sawed, scraped, or sanded into a powder–the material releases its fibers into the air. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), breathing in high levels of asbestos fibers has been associated with three major health conditions:

• Lung cancer
• Mesothelioma (a rare cancer of the lining of the lungs, chest, abdomen, and heart)
• Asbestosis (a non-cancerous, chronic, and progressive disease resulting from scarred lung tissue)

WHERE CAN I FIND ASBESTOS?

Due to its high heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties, asbestos has been used in products such as:

• Attic and wall insulation containing vermiculite (typically in houses built before 1980)
• Building construction materials (i.e., roof and siding shingles)
• Vinyl floor tiles
• Fire retardants and heat-resistant fabrics
• Hot water and steam pipes
• Furnace ducts

Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), the EPA has banned some asbestos-containing products and continues to evaluate the risk of certain uses of asbestos.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF THERE IS ASBESTOS IN MY HOME?

If the asbestos material is in good condition, it will not crumble and release inhalable fibers into the air. In that case, the best solution is to leave it alone. However, if the materials have deteriorated or you plan to remodel or renovate in a way that will disturb these products, you will need to consult a trained professional. Keystone’s inspectors are fully certified and trained in the identification of asbestos. After doing an asbestos home inspection and assessing the damage, we can then refer you to an expert abatement and remediation team who will remove the asbestos safely and properly.