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Asbestos and water damage
6/1/2023 (Permalink)
Structure build prior 1979 require to be tested for asbestos.
Water damage and asbestos are two separate issues that can cause significant health hazards when combined.
The Risks of Water Damage
Water damage in a home can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses. Water damage can also weaken building materials, making them more susceptible to damage and failure.
The Risks of Asbestos
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were once widely used in building materials for their fire-retardant and insulating properties. However, exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Asbestos-containing materials that are commonly found in homes include:
- Insulation (pipe insulation, duct insulation, and attic insulation)
- Vinyl flooring and adhesive
- Ceiling tiles
- Roofing materials
- Textured paint and patching compounds
- Drywall joint compound
What to Do if You Suspect Asbestos in Your Water-Damaged Home
If you suspect that your water-damaged home contains asbestos, here are some steps you can take:
Contact a professional: Contact a professional asbestos abatement contractor to test for asbestos and safely remove any contaminated materials.
Avoid disturbing suspected asbestos-containing materials: Do not attempt to remove or disturb suspected asbestos-containing materials yourself, as this can release asbestos fibers into the air.
Limit access to the affected area: If you suspect that asbestos-containing materials are present, limit access to the affected area and prevent anyone from entering the area until it has been properly tested and treated.
Repair water damage promptly: Promptly repairing water damage can help prevent further damage and reduce the risk of asbestos fibers being released into the air.
California has strict asbestos laws. Please visit https://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/acru/acruinfo.htm for more information.
If you are in a need of environmental hygienist to see if your house has an asbestos call SERVPRO Malibu at 310-456-2135