Should My House be Tested for Asbestos in Devon?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in construction due to its durability, heat resistance, and insulating qualities. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. As a homeowner in Devon, its important to know if your house contains asbestos and take the necessary steps to remove it. In this article, well discuss why you should consider testing your house for asbestos and what to do if its found.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon - The Asbestos Testing Company in Devon

We are Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, a professional asbestos testing and removal company serving residents in Devon and the South West of England. Our company has decades of experience in dealing with asbestos-related issues, and were committed to providing affordable, reliable, and efficient services that prioritize the safety and well-being of our clients.

As trained professionals, we understand the risks associated with asbestos and we approach every job with the utmost care and attention to detail. We use state-of-the-art equipment and follow strict safety protocols to ensure that your house is thoroughly tested for asbestos, and any necessary repairs or removals are done in the most effective way possible.

Understanding Asbestos

Before we dive into the reasons why you should test your house for asbestos, its important to have a basic understanding of what asbestos is and where its commonly found.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in various materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and cement. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, microscopic fibers are released into the air, which can be inhaled and become lodged in the lungs. Over time, these fibers can cause serious health problems such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos was widely used in construction from the 1940s to the 1990s, which means that many older homes in Devon may contain asbestos. While its generally considered safe if left undisturbed, any activity that can cause the material to become damaged or deteriorate can increase the risk of exposure.

Why You Should Test Your House for Asbestos

There are several reasons why you should consider testing your house for asbestos, even if it was built after the 1990s.

Health Risks

The primary reason to test your house for asbestos is to protect your health and the health of your family. Asbestos exposure can cause serious health problems that may not appear for decades after exposure. By testing your house for asbestos, you can determine if there are any areas that need to be addressed to mitigate the risk of exposure.

Renovations

If youre planning on renovating your house, testing for asbestos is crucial. Asbestos was commonly used in insulation, roofing, and flooring, so any renovations that involve these materials can disturb asbestos fibers and release them into the air. Testing for asbestos before the renovation begins can help identify any areas that need to be addressed before work commences.

Selling Your Home

If youre planning on selling your home, testing for asbestos is a wise decision. Homes containing asbestos can be difficult to sell since many homebuyers are aware of the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Testing for asbestos before you list your home can help you identify any issues that need to be addressed before putting your house on the market.

Signs Your House May Contain Asbestos

While its not always possible to identify asbestos-containing materials by sight, there are several signs that your house may contain asbestos. These include:

• Your house was built between 1940 and 1990
• Your house has old insulation thats crumbly or deteriorating
• You have old vinyl or linoleum flooring
• Your house has old roofing materials
• You have old cement products such as pipes or siding

If you suspect that your house may contain asbestos, its best to err on the side of caution and have it tested by a professional.

What to Do if Asbestos is Found in Your House

If asbestos is found in your house, its important to take appropriate action to address the issue. Depending on the type and amount of asbestos found, you may need to have it removed or repaired by a professional asbestos removal company like Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon.

In some cases, sealing or encapsulating the asbestos may be an option. This involves covering the asbestos-containing material with a sealant to prevent the fibers from being released. However, sealing is only a temporary solution and may not be appropriate in all cases.

If asbestos-containing materials need to be removed, its important to hire a professional asbestos removal company like Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon. Attempting to remove asbestos yourself can be dangerous and may cause more harm than good.

Final Thoughts

Testing your house for asbestos is a crucial step in protecting your health and the health of your family. The risks associated with asbestos exposure are too serious to ignore, and identifying any areas that need to be addressed can give you peace of mind as a homeowner.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, were committed to providing our clients with affordable, reliable, and efficient asbestos testing and removal services. If you suspect that your house may contain asbestos or if you have any questions about our services, dont hesitate to contact us at 01962 458066 or via email at [email protected]. Were here to help.