Asbestos in Home and Siding
Do you live in a home that was built before 1980? Then there is a good chance that you have asbestos in or on the exterior of your home. If you think you might have asbestos in your home or in your siding you should call an asbestos abatement company.
Before you pick up the phone to call in an expert, let’s look at some facts. What is asbestos? Why do you need to worry about it? What is there to do about asbestos siding?
Asbestos is a mineral. This mineral is made up of fibers that are very versatile and can be used for a huge variety of things. For several centuries it was used in everything from clothing to building material. It was commonly found in siding, insulation, ceilings, paint, cement and many other applications.
Asbestos fibers are not only versatile but also fire and heat resistant. That made it very attractive for many different industries and explains the use of it over so many years.
In residential siding, asbestos was commonly used in 24-inch by 12-inch panels or tiles. The asbestos fibers were used to reinforce cement to create tiles. These tiles are easily painted and often have been painted many times over the years. Even though it is a sturdy siding, it does eventually crack and break down.
Since the 1940s it became more and more known that this mineral poses some serious dangers. The use of asbestos has dramatically declined since then but was still rather common till the 1980s. In the U.S., asbestos is still used and not banned like in some other countries but its use is very limited.
Health Risks
Do you live in a home that was built before 1980? Then there is a good chance that you have asbestos in or on the exterior of your home. If you think you might have asbestos in your home or in your siding you should call an asbestos abatement company.
Before you pick up the phone to call in an expert, let’s look at some facts. What is asbestos? Why do you need to worry about it? What is there to do about asbestos siding?
Asbestos is a mineral. This mineral is made up of fibers that are very versatile and can be used for a huge variety of things. For several centuries it was used in everything from clothing to building material. It was commonly found in siding, insulation, ceilings, paint, cement and many other applications.
Asbestos fibers are not only versatile but also fire and heat resistant. That made it very attractive for many different industries and explains the use of it over so many years.
In residential siding, asbestos was commonly used in 24-inch by 12-inch panels or tiles. The asbestos fibers were used to reinforce cement to create tiles. These tiles are easily painted and often have been painted many times over the years. Even though it is a sturdy siding, it does eventually crack and break down.
Since the 1940s it became more and more known that this mineral poses some serious dangers. The use of asbestos has dramatically declined since then but was still rather common till the 1980s. In the U.S., asbestos is still used and not banned like in some other countries but its use is very limited.
Do Something About Your Asbestos Siding
One thing to keep in mind about asbestos is that it is not dangerous as long as it is left alone and is intact. However, when the fibers become bridle or cracked or are disturbed and become airborne, it becomes a huge health hazard. Asbestos can break down with age and microscopic particles are released into the air.
Another big reason for asbestos exposure is construction or DYI projects around the house. Additionally, fires can cause asbestos fibers to be exposed and be released into the air. It is best to remove materials containing asbestos before that can happen.
If you think you have asbestos material in your home, never try to remove it yourself. Never sweep up or vacuum up debris that may contain asbestos. Let the experts handle that, who can use appropriate precautions.
If you live in Colorado and the greater Denver area, we can highly recommend Asbestos Abatement. We have a long standing personal and professional relationship with Joel Egelman and the rest of the team. They are the best abatement company around.
Asbestos Abatement can evaluate potential asbestos material, test it, take abatement measures or remove and dispose of this hazardous material safely. They know what they are doing and will do everything to make your home safe again.
Healthier with New Siding
Is your siding old and needs to be repaired or replaced? Are you worried that your siding contains asbestos? Then give us a call! The sooner you take steps to a healthier home, the better. We can come and look at it and refer you to Asbestos Abatement if we think you might indeed have asbestos siding.
Our team from Colorado Siding Repair does not repair, remove or work with asbestos siding. The health risks are too great for us and our customers, that is why we refer you to the Asbestos Abatement team.
Once your old siding is safely removed, we can help you pick a new and healthier siding option. We have many great choices for you to pick from and can work within your budget. We are one of the few companies that specializes in full and partial siding replacement.
If only part of your home had asbestos siding that got removed, we can match new siding to the remaining siding. That will create a look that is coordinated and complete. If it is possible to only partially replace the siding, we will tell you so and it will save you thousands of dollars.
Our team does not only install beautiful siding, but we can also paint the exterior of your home to create a completed look. No matter what is needed for your home’s exterior, we can help.
When it comes to siding, you have an abundance of choices regarding style, texture, color and brand. Colorado Siding Repair is a James Hardie Elite Preferred contractor. This fiber cement siding looks great, is very durable and will add value to your home.
We are happy to point out all of your options in a friendly, low-pressure way. Together we will find a solution that is best for you and your home. Give Colorado Siding Repair a call today to start your path to a healthier and more beautiful siding!
