Though originally thought to be completely safe, the true dangers of asbestos are now well known. Asbestos has been linked to severe health issues in humans, with even minimal exposure being considered harmful.
Popularized for widespread industrial use over a century ago, this fibrous material can still be found in homes throughout the world. Greater Edmonton is no exception, as asbestos removal is often a common requirement before renovations and demolitions. Join us at Grimebusters as we peel back the layers on asbestos and spill some crucial truths for Edmonton residents to know.
1. Asbestos Was Common in Edmonton Homes Built Before 1990
Although the use of asbestos has been prohibited in Canada since 2018, many older buildings still contain the substance. In fact, before the 1990s, asbestos was commonly found in the construction of homes. Nowadays, Edmonton asbestos removal calls are common, much to the shock of homeowners who make the discoveries themselves.
Asbestos can be found in materials like:
- Drywall and paint
- Interior Insulation
- Floor tiles
- Ceiling tiles
- Shingles and roofing materials
Though often overlooked, asbestos can also be found in the furnaces of older homes. Decades ago, asbestos insulation, wrapping and tape were used to prevent heat from leaking out through ductwork. But Edmonton homeowners nowadays should know that if you need a furnace repair or replacement, you must have the asbestos removed first. HVAC professionals aren’t qualified to deal with systems containing asbestos and require it to be cleared.
2. DIY Renovations Could Put You at Risk
Before you get started on that open concept kitchen you’ve been dreaming of, it’s best to make sure you won’t need asbestos removal first. Though the presence of any asbestos should be avoided, it’s most dangerous when disturbed. Tearing, cutting into, and disturbing areas containing asbestos skyrockets the potential for harmful exposure. Whether you’re doing the renovations yourself or if you’ve hired a contractor, these renovations could put you at risk.
Asbestos exposure risks serious, long-term health risks, including:
- Asbestosis and other respiratory diseases
- Scarring of internal organs
- Lung cancer and lung-related diseases
3. You Can’t Tell if Something Has Asbestos by Looking At It
When it was used for buildings, asbestos was typically incorporated into insulation, ceiling tiles, or flooring. This was done to add desirable properties into the construction of a building, including fire insulation, electrical resistance, and overall strength.
Asbestos fibres themselves are invisible to the naked eye. As such, the only way you can be sure if your home contains asbestos is with professional asbestos testing (and subsequent asbestos removal):
To properly identify asbestos, certified testing includes:
- Initial consultation
- On-site sample collection
- Lab testing & analysis
- Lab results (with servicing estimates)
4. Only Certified Remediation Experts Should Remove Asbestos
Asbestos forms in tiny, needle-like fibres. Its molecules are both smaller than a grain of sand and thinner than a strand of hair. As you breathe, these fibres are able to enter seamlessly into your body. Asbestos fibres cling to your lungs, where they’re able to remain for years. These fibres cause both acute and chronic damage over time.
As such, only certified asbestos removal technicians, like Grimebusters, can safely remove the material. Not only do we have years of experience in the Edmonton community, but we’re also equipped with specialized hazard-proof gear and tools necessary to perform comprehensive asbestos abatement.
Don’t Risk It, Call Grimebusters
Leave dealing with the dirty stuff to Edmonton’s asbestos removal pros. Family owned and operated since 1994—we’ve been a community staple since the beginning. Whether you’re simply wondering if your older home contains asbestos or if you’re in need of 24/7 emergency asbestos remediation services, we have your back.
Reach out to Grimebusters to book your asbestos removal, and get one step closer to breathing easier in your space.