Asbestos in Your Home

Asbestos can be found in many places in homes built before 1970. If your home does have asbestos, it doesn’t mean it’s a constant danger. Asbestos is not a threat as long as it’s not damaged. However, if it’s disturbed, damaged or destroyed, it can release microscopic fibers into the air that can become trapped in your lungs and body tissues. The body can’t break down these fibers, and over time they cause diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer.

You can find asbestos in homes in shingles and siding, insulation, vinyl floor tiles, pipes, furnaces, surfaces around stoves and stovetops, and some textured paints.

If you have anything in your home containing asbestos, you don’t have to panic. Again, it’s not a threat as long as the asbestos is in one piece. The important thing is to identify the asbestos and then inspect it regularly for damage or wear. If you are planning on remodeling a home with asbestos materials, then have the materials tested before any work is begun.

If you do need to repair or remodel an area that contains asbestos, here are a few tips:

• Don’t dust, sweep or vacuum asbestos material.
• Don’t saw, sand or scrape asbestos material.
• Don’t use abrasive pads or power strippers.
• Don’t attempt to remove asbestos flooring. Install new flooring over it, if possible.
• Don’t track asbestos material through the house. Avoid going near it, or clean the area with a wet mop.
• Have any repairs or removal done by contractors who are trained and qualified to handle asbestos.

Prim Law Firm PLLC represents clients in cases involving lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma in West Virginia, and our clients owe no fees unless we are successful in recovering compensation on their behalf.