You’ve likely heard of asbestos before and the many terrible things it can cause. You may be surprised to hear it is still used in modern construction materials to this day. There is a wide range of construction products that continue to use asbestos in their components. As a result, this harmful material could potentially make its way into your air ducts.
There are numerous indoor air pollutants you can experience. Asbestos is only one of the many you must be concerned with. In fact, it is one of the most harmful you can find in your home. For that reason, regular air duct cleanings will help reduce exposure to these harmful pollutants. We will go into more detail about this substance and how you can keep your home free of its harmful effects.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral. Because of its fibrous structure and resistance to heat, it has become a popular material in a wide range of building materials. However, building materials are not the only types of products that contain asbestos. You can find asbestos in the following:
- roof shingles
- ceiling and floor tiles
- cement
- building paper products
- heat-resistant fabrics
- gaskets
- packaging
- transmission parts
- auto brakes
- auto clutches
While asbestos in these products does not put people around them at risk, it can become a problem. Asbestos becomes a health hazard when the material is cut, sanded, or disturbed in a way where fibers release into the air.
Asbestos’ History
The claim of harmful effects caused by asbestos was made in 1897 by an Austrian doctor. One of his patients had inhaled asbestos dust, which he attributed to their health troubles. The following year, a report for the asbestos manufacturing process in England found multiple cases of lung damage and injuries from the dust. In 1906, the first asbestos-related death was documented. It wouldn’t be until the 1930s that significant evidence brought the material to the forefront of medical concern.
By the 1970s, asbestos mining and use in products were severely declining. As employees and unions fought for safer and healthier working conditions, asbestos became a target among their efforts. Environmental regulations assisted in the push to ban the material in many countries around the globe. The European Union banned the use of asbestos in 2005, with others countries like Saudi Arabia and Australia following suit.
Today, asbestos is still used in the United States. While its use in building materials is lower than it has ever been, it can be found in homes, schools, churches, office buildings, bars, restaurants, and many other types of buildings.
Asbestos Health Conditions
Asbestos severely increases your chance of developing lung diseases such as cancer or mesothelioma. If you have been exposed to asbestos, conditions of lung disease will likely not show up for many years. Even then, knowing when to go to the doctor for a checkup can be difficult since these conditions don’t always show symptoms right away. For that reason, it is important for you to see a doctor on a regular basis to catch potential diseases and conditions like lung disease.
The Importance of Air Duct Cleaning
It can be difficult to know if asbestos is found in the building materials that make up your home. If the material has been disturbed, it could allow fibers to enter the air. These fibers can spread through your home or collect in the air ducts. That is why you need a professional air duct cleaning company to keep your ductwork clean.
It is important to note Fresh Air cannot remove the disturbed asbestos materials from your home since it requires proper licensing and professionals. However, we can assist in keeping exposure down by providing regular air duct cleanings. These cleanings will also remove dust, dander, pollen, and other common indoor air pollutants.
Give us a call today at (214) 272-9715, or visit the contact us page to fill out the form. You should also visit our air duct cleaning page for more details on our services. Let our team help you breathe cleaner and healthier air!