Considering the danger that asbestos poses, it is safer to have it removed from your home altogether. You could go the DIY route, although it is highly recommended that you hire a contractor instead.
Asbestos having been used successfully as an insulator and fire resistance substance has since been deemed dangerous because of the respiratory diseases it causes, including asbestosis and lung cancer. These conditions have been seen in people who were exposed to asbestos regularly including asbestos miners, plumbers and builders. Although relatively harmless in small quantities, most people feel safer if they got rid of it from their homes completely.
Have you discovered that you have some asbestos on your roof and want to remove it? Asbestos is safe, as long as it remains undisturbed. If disturbed, it releases its fiber into the air, which when inhaled, is the cause of several respiratory conditions. If your roof has asbestos, which seems to be in good condition, and is undisturbed, it is advisable that you leave it that way. However, if parts of your roof are damaged, and the asbestos is exposed, then it would be a good idea to remove it altogether. Below are some tips that will help you remove the asbestos safely.
Asbestos Removal Tips
1. Beware of regulations pertaining to asbestos removal. Because of its hazardous nature, there are some laws that have been put in place that are meant to regulate how it is removed and where it is disposed. Ensure you are aware of all the laws that surround asbestos removal in your area.
2. Opt for a licensed contractor as opposed to choosing to do it yourself. You may read up on all the material available concerning asbestos removal, but you still may not compare with someone who is skilled and licensed to remove it properly. Should you choose to do it yourself, you may expose yourself to this harmful substance, or put other members of your family at risk. A licensed contractor will know how to handle removing asbestos, in a manner that is less likely to put you or those living with you at risk. To hire a contractor, you simply need to find a list of licensed contractors available in your area. Once you narrow down your search to a few, ask them for references of previous work done, or do a quick search online to check for reviews.
3. While removing the asbestos, you want to ensure that both you and those living with you, are far away from possible. This reduces their chances of accidentally inhaling the asbestos fibers should they be released into the air. If you do need to be nearby while the contractor is removing the asbestos, then you will need to wear the correct gear. Because asbestos can stick to any kind of fiber, it is best if you chose a pair of overalls that you wouldn't mind throwing away once done. You will also need to wear latex gloves and metal capped shoes. These are substances that asbestos can't adhere to.
4. Once the removal process is complete, clean your roof with water, which will neutralize any asbestos that may have escaped removal. Also ensure that your contractor disposes of the asbestos waste in the correct way.
