HNST Mold Inspections provides Asbestos testing & surveys in the states of New York and New Jersey. There are situations where Asbestos poses threats, but it can be important to know whether Asbestos is present in a suspected area or building material. It is commonly found in drywall/sheetrock, joint compound, plaster, adhesives, flooring materials, fireproofing materials & beyond.
For this reason, the EPA, OSHA, New York & New Jersey State Laws requires an Asbestos survey & sampling of building materials for any renovation or demolition project in homes or buildings built prior to 1980. This would include mold remediations & water damage mitigations. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of the survey if it involves disturbing materials covered under the loss. Sampling in homes built after 1980 is warranted as asbestos is still used in other countries and the US imports products from these countries.
Why is Asbestos dangerous?
Asbestos is a mineral found in nature. Part of the reason it is so harmful to humans is the small size of the fibers. An individual fiber of Asbestos can only be seen by an PLM (polarized light microscopy) & TEM (transmission electron microscopy). When these fibers are woven and clumped together they pose less threat than when they break apart and become airborne. They can easily be inhaled, ingested, or exposed to eyes and mucus membranes. Their microscopic size makes them tasteless and odorless as well.
Do I have Asbestos in my house or building?
There are many products that contain Asbestos, the majority of those being building materials. The most common suspect ACM (asbestos containing materials) products are: Roofing, caulks, textured and paint, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, sheetrock,
PACM (presumed asbestos containing materials) are any surfacing materials such as plaster, joint compound (if it covers the entire surface of the wall), fireproofing materials and TSI (thermal system insulation) such as any pipe, boiler or duct insulation.
What do I do if I have Asbestos?
In many cases Asbestos is found in these common materials is safe when left untouched. It’s important however to know if the material in question in your home or business contains such material if you are planning any renovation project. Many building departments will require a survey prior to issuing a permit. Asbestos is perfectly safe when it is not disturbed or damaged. While it’s not recommended, homeowners are legally allowed to remove asbestos in their own home. Asbestos is considered hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. It is best to have it removed by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor.
