Asbestos can be found in many places that may surprise you. It is imperative to know what these are so as not to disrupt the natural balance of things and put yourself at risk for serious health complications later on down the line.
Asbestos, a known carcinogen, was commonly used in construction and manufacturing from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century when it was used by builders and architects during construction projects all around the world without warning or proper safety precautions due mainly to ignorance about its dangers up until then.
However today we have more knowledge surrounding this hazardous material which makes removing asbestos from buildings much easier. Naturally, the first step for asbestos removal is to identify asbestos.
So, What Does Asbestos Look Like?
Asbestos fibers are light and small, so they can float in the air for days. While asbestos has some distinguishable features, an analysis of its appearance often requires the help of a microscope to show its color and shape.
This is because individual particles break down into such small pieces that their size cannot be seen by naked eyes without help from magnifying devices like microscopes as well as other instruments which measure these things more precisely than human vision alone could detect them on sight; even if it were clumped together with other tiny bits (another reason why people should wear masks while doing renovations).
There are three types of asbestos that may be found in residential or commercial properties: crocidolite (blue), amosite (brown), and chrysotile (white).
Asbestos can range from a dark blue to light brown color. White is the least common type, but it’s still possible for homeowners to find this substance lurking around their property.
Crocidolite Asbestos (Blue Asbestos)
Crocidolite asbestos, or blue death, is the worst type of asbestos. It is commonly used to insulate steam engines and sprayed on as a coating for pipes and plastics. It can be identified by its blue color and thin fibers that are extremely hazardous to your health, damaging organs like the lungs over time.
Amosite Asbestos (Brown Asbestos)
Amosite is the second most commonly-used form of asbestos in the United States and poses a greater risk for cancer than other types. Brown in color, this particular type was used frequently as insulation board and pipe insulation, among many others. This colorless material from the group known to cause lung cancers has been seen all around America’s homes – it can be on their ceilings or even between floorboards!
Chrysotile Asbestos (White Asbestos)
Chrysotile, which is the most commonly used type of asbestos and can be found in roofs, ceilings, walls and floors even today. Chrysotile was also often used to make brake linings for cars such as Ford Motor Company vehicles from 1955-1976; gaskets that seal fluid around moving objects like valves or hoses on a car; insulation of pipes by Owens Corning Corporation between 1951-1972 before they replaced it with amosite (another form of fibrous amphibole).
What To Do If You Think You Have Asbestos
It’s important to note that DIY removal is not recommended and can be extremely dangerous. Homeowners who discover asbestos in their homes should consult a licensed asbestos abatement professional, but it’s also helpful for you know how identify the substance as early on as possible so your home remains safe longer term.
The first step to address asbestos in your home is having a professional take a look at it. They will test and evaluate the materials, then recommend an action plan for removing or repairing the asbestos. Contact us today to find the best asbestos testing company in your area!