Asbestos used to be a common addition to materials used for builidng because it was durable, fire-resistant, and it insulates; however, it is known to be harmful. Over the last several decades, its use has been highly regulated and in many countries banned due to it causing serious health issues including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesotheliom. One thing most homeowners do not realize is that ACMs might still exist in certain building parts, even in newer homes.
Not so long ago, we have executed an asbestos inspection in the home, which was built within a couple of decades. Being a modern home, the roofing material still came back positive for asbestos. This is one of those unexpected findings that really points out how important comprehensive asbestos inspections are in all homes, regardless of age.
The Inspection Process
Our team conducted a careful examination of the property, with scrutiny of various materials, including insulation, flooring, ceilings, and roofing. The materials to which asbestos is known to be used in include those that are ordinarily not suspected to contain it, like older pipes or finishes. Among areas suspected to contain asbestos, we were concerned about the roofing.
The material sample was collected from the roof and forwarded to an accredited laboratory for analysis. Quite contrary to expectations, the results showed that there were asbestos fibers in the roofing material, though the visible part of the roof seemed not that old.
Roofing Materials and Asbestos
Asbestos has not been completely phased out of all building products, and it is still legal in certain applications, although strictly regulated. Materials like shingles, tiles, and coatings were used in roofing since they were strong and withstood weathering conditions quite well. While the roofing materials are newer, safer, and asbestos-free, older homes or homes using materials produced before bans took effect may still contain asbestos in their roofing systems.
This new finding now serves to prove that, despite increased regulations and awareness, asbestos can still be present within materials that may appear quite modern. The roofing in this house, though relatively new, testing positive for asbestos makes awareness of the probable existence of this hazardous substance highly essential, even in houses whose construction dates after the height of asbestos use.
What This Means for Homeowners
This finding makes a case for caution in renovation or work on building materials that may contain asbestos. While asbestos is not harmful if it remains undisturbed, the risk arises when materials are disturbed-such as during roofing repairs, remodeling, or demolition. If fibers are released into the air and inhaled, they can pose serious health risks.
In this case, while the asbestos in the roofing material presents no immediate danger, a plan of proper handling is needed for any homeowner when repairs or renovations are in order. If there is any question that the materials may be disturbed, it is best to contact a professional asbestos abatement and removal service.
Conclusion
Asbestos in the roofing of even relatively new homes gives evidence that many of today’s building materials may contain asbestos. An asbestos inspection by the homeowner should always be considered if renovations or repairs are going to be done or are being contemplated. In this manner, it allows one to take proper precautions for all those who enter your house.
Asbestos testing is one valuable measure of identification and management of risks that might pop up. While today many building materials are asbestos-free, this hazardous material could appear in your home under several circumstances. Homeowners should collaborate with certified professionals to ensure homes are safe, with as little exposure to toxic asbestos fibers.
