We now know about the health dangers of asbestos, and many homeowners working on a renovation have good reason to be concerned about the possibility of discovering it in their walls or ceilings. But, asbestos was widely used in residential construction even up until the late 1980’s because it was seen as a cost-effective, durable material with excellent fireproof and insulation properties.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that can be found in soil and rocks. It was used as an insulation material in walls and around pipes because it can withstand high temperatures and repel water. Asbestos was also used to make roofing and ceiling tiles because of its fireproofing capabilities. Asbestos fibres are made up of tiny particles that become airborne when disturbed or exposed to weathering. These particles are invisible to the naked eye and can be inhaled into lungs where they can cause serious health issues. This means that asbestos removal professionals in Ottawa need to be brought in as soon as it is discovered.
The Major Downside of Asbestos
Asbestos is now known to be a carcinogenic material that can cause serious health issues such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. As awareness of the dangers of asbestos grew in the mid-1900s, its use in construction materials began to decline. By the 1980s, the production of materials containing asbestos had been banned in many countries around the world, including Canada, but the sales of those materials manufactured before the ban continued for years.
Although asbestos is no longer used in new home construction in Ottawa, there may still be some remaining asbestos products in your house from previous renovations or home improvements. If you think you may have asbestos in your home, it’s important to contact professionals experienced in asbestos removal in Ottawa to take care of it safely and properly.
