What You Need to Know About Residential Asbestos Removal
Asbestos is a very dangerous substance that has been banned from use in most areas, but this material can still be found in some older homes, and it may be present in your property's soil. If you've had your home or property inspected, and either one has been found to contain asbestos, note a few factors to keep in mind about residential asbestos removal, so you know what to expect during this process and also know when it's good to hire an expert versus trying to manage this cleanup on your own.
Cleaning asbestos
Never assume that you can or should try to clean even the smallest amount of asbestos on your own, as standard cleaning and removal methods may not work for this substance. For example, dry brooming an area kicks up dust, and this dust can contain asbestos fibres that then settle in other areas of your home. Vacuuming the asbestos with a standard household vacuum is also typically not recommended, as most vacuum cleaners have vents that push out air, in order to create suction inside the canister or bag, and this vented air can also contain asbestos fibres. To ensure you avoid these risks of spreading the substance, have a professional manage cleanup for you.
Burying asbestos
It is often illegal to bury asbestos, even on your own property and even if it's in a container or plastic sheeting of some sort. In most areas, you need to dispose of asbestos at a landfill that is especially licensed to handle this substance and cannot simply toss it out with your standard household rubbish or even keep it outside in a contained tub or canister. If you're not sure of the local regulations regarding the disposal of asbestos removed from your home, leave this cleanup to a professional.
Roofing tiles
Some roofing tiles and shingles may contain asbestos, especially if those shingles are very old. If these have been installed on your home's roof, don't assume that you're safe from exposure simply because the asbestos is outside. Roofing tiles can become very brittle and then crack or crumble, and this can release dust that contains asbestos. Crumbling roofing tiles can also allow granules to fall into the home's gutters and downspouts so that they are then absorbed into the soil, where those asbestos fibres can travel to any location. To avoid risks of inhaling those fibres or allowing them to spread, you might have your home's roof replaced by a roofing contractor who specializes in handling shingles that contain asbestos.