What is Asbestos?

We’ve all probably heard about asbestos. A durable and heat-resistant mineral that was widely used for a variety of purposes until it wasn’t. Asbestos is a naturally occurring silicate mineral that can be found in rock and soil. It is highly durable and possesses heat, electricity, and corrosion-resistant properties.

Despite its near-indestructible qualities, Asbestos production became highly regulated in the United States during the 1980s because of its detrimental effects on human health. These regulations made the production of many asbestos products illegal.

Specialists in hazmat suits removing asbestos

Uses of Asbestos

Asbestos deposits can be found throughout the world. These minerals are extracted, processed, and used as raw materials for a wide variety of products. Because of its virtual indestructibility, asbestos was used in aircraft, ships, automobiles, and building constructions. Before the strict regulations towards the end of the 19th century, it was extensively used in industrial, commercial, and residential buildings.

Asbestos removal specialist in hazmat suit surveying removal site

Asbestos-Containing Building Materials

Asbestos has seen widespread use in the construction of buildings before the 1980s. They were used as materials in insulations, floorings, roofing, walls, and other building parts. These asbestos-containing building materials (ABCM) were mainly utilized because of their inherent durability and fire-resistant characteristics. However, it was found that asbestos exposure can cause a multitude of health risks, many of them fatal.

Word cloud about asbestos

Asbestos Health Risks

Asbestos is considered a carcinogen, a substance that can cause cancer in humans. Exposure can cause a wide variety of illnesses, most notably Mesothelioma - fatal cancer that grows in the lungs and chest cavity tissues.

Asbestos exposure can also cause other respiratory-related illnesses such as Asbestosis (a noncancerous lung disease) and pulmonary disorders. Exposure can occur when microscopic particles become airborne, which can easily be inhaled or swallowed.

Danger: Asbestos Removal In Progress sign

The Asbestos Abatement Process

Asbestos abatement is used to remove toxic asbestos or mitigate its hazardous effects on a property’s inhabitants. Because of its widespread use in the 1980s, asbestos materials can still be found in many older buildings.

Asbestos abatement doesn’t necessarily mean complete removal. There are instances where keeping it undisturbed and intact using a set of procedures may be more suitable to avoid the risk of exposure. In many cases, however, removal would be a safer long-term solution.

If you think your property contains asbestos materials, call B&R Environmental in Denver immediately to eliminate the risk of hazardous substances to your family, tenants, or workers.

Conclusion

Asbestos can still lurk in older buildings, while exposure to it can be fatal. If you suspect asbestos materials in your property, it’s always a good idea to act immediately.

B&R Environmental is a leading asbestos abatement services company. We specialize in asbestos removal and abatement on both residential and commercial buildings in the Denver metro area.

If you need swift and complete asbestos removal services for your peace of mind, don’t hesitate to call our friendly team. We’re happy to provide you with a free quote and transparent customer service every step of the way.

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