The Importance of Hiring Licensed Asbestos Removal Professionals
Many residential and commercial buildings contain a product known as asbestos, which was commonly used in roofing materials, insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles and a range of other building materials. In the 1970’s, it was discovered that asbestos was a potentially life-threatening material if humans inhaled the material. For this reason, regulations have required asbestos be removed from buildings. One of the most common ways asbestos is discovered is during a remodeling project; however, most financial institutions require an inspection for asbestos when you apply for a home loan. Asbestos is dangerous and must be removed by professional contractors.
Asbestos Inspection:
If you are considering buying a home or if you suspect asbestos is in your current home, the first step is to have an inspection. A company specializing in asbestos testing can conduct the inspection for you. Samples will be taken from various areas of the home and sent to a lab for examination. If asbestos is found in the home, in some situations it may not need to be removed, such as if it is in good condition and in an area that will not be disturbed. However, if the asbestos is found to be in poor condition, which often means it has already been disturbed in some way, it should be removed by a professional firm that specialize in asbestos removal.
Asbestos Removal:
It is recommended that you not attempt to remove the asbestos on your own. There are specific rules and regulations in place that licensed asbestos contractors adhere to. A professional asbestos removal company has the appropriate equipment to safely remove the asbestos without risking the health of themselves, your family and the environment. When asbestos is disturbed, the material becomes airborne, which poses a risk to anyone in the vicinity of the materials. Once asbestos has become airborne it is extremely difficult to contain and it can pose a health risk to the indoor environment. Asbestos removal companies are required to wear protective clothing, including masks to prevent the materials from entering the lungs. If you attempt to remove the material, without appropriate equipment and protective clothing, you could be risking your health.
If you are considering a remodeling project for a home that was built prior to 1970, it is recommended to have an inspection for asbestos before beginning work. Asbestos removal is a dirty, hard and dangerous job that should be left to professional contractors.
Schemel Companies, Inc. is a Missouri and Illinois asbestos removal contractor that provides licensed professional asbestos abatement, lead paint abatement, and mold remediation services for residential, commercial and industrial properties. Schemel Companies has a dedicated team of environmental service professionals licensed in Missouri and Illinois.