Asbestos is a building material that is commonly found in insulation, fire retardant, roofing shingles, ceiling and floor tiles, building siding, and other finishes. The material is known for being a strong fiber that is heat resistant, when left alone the fiber is generally not harmful, but when disrupted by demolition work, routine maintenance, or restoration processes it becomes a big deal and must be handled properly. Asbestos was banned in the 1970s by the EPA, but it is still prevalent in older homes that have not been remodeled.
The Dangers of Asbestos
Asbestos is airborne, so the biggest issue that those who are exposed to asbestos experience is lung disease. The top lung disease risks of exposure include:
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
These are all conditions that can affect the lungs, chest, abdomen, and heart and should be taken very seriously. They can be complicated to diagnose, especially for those who are unaware they were exposed to the fibers.
How Fire Makes Asbestos Riskier
Asbestos fibers are known for being heat resistant, which is why they were originally used in building materials before much was known about its exposure risks. When exposed to a fire, the fibers become very brittle and break apart, easily becoming airborne and breaking down small enough to be invisible to the naked eye.
If your home was built before or around the 1970s, it’s recommended that you do not enter the building after a fire to avoid accidental exposure. The smoke from the fibers that have been aflame can contain a dangerous mix of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, water vapor, and other substances. When mixed with asbestos fibers the smoke and air becomes even more dangerous. If you’re in doubt, call a professional fire restoration company – they will have the tools and personal protective equipment to safely enter the home to assess the damage and manage the asbestos.
Asbestos Removal is NOT a DIY Project
Managing asbestos removal after a fire is not a project you should take on yourself, you should always contact a professional restoration company with experience in fire work and asbestos removal. S&S Restoration is available 24/7 to ensure you get a rapid response to minimize exposure to asbestos and the spread of the fibers. To make matters easier, we also help you navigate the insurance claims process to reduce stress and streamline your restoration project to get you back in your home as soon as possible.
About S&S Restoration
S&S Restoration is a Temecula, California restoration company that specializes in both residential and commercial buildings affected by fire, flooding, mold, and storms. We proudly serve the Inland Empire, San Diego, High Desert, and San Bernardino County areas. Give us a call at (800) 608-8447 or visit our website at ssrestorationinc.com, we’re available 24/7 for emergency response to guarantee the best outcomes.
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