The Benefits of Asbestos Testing for Washington, D.C. Homeowners
Since asbestos fibers are too small to be seen with the naked eye the only way to determine the presence of asbestos is with professional asbestos testing in Washington, D.C. Asbestos that is stable, contained, and undisturbed rarely presents a health risk. The danger from asbestos inhalation comes when it deteriorates, is damaged, or is exposed to air and moisture. When asbestos fibers enter the air they can be inhaled and become lodged in the lining of the lungs, causing serious medical issues including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Industry experts agree managing asbestos in place by keeping your home in good repair can be the best strategy. But before you plan to sell, purchase, or remodel a home you need to be fully informed about the status of any asbestos contained in the building materials. Typically, a structure built before 1980 will have a higher likelihood of having asbestos fibers, with older buildings being particularly suspect. Asbestos testing in Washington, D.C. delivers scientifically determined results so you can protect your health and investment and safely proceed with your future plans.
It's not possible to tell whether a home contains asbestos simply by looking at it. If you have concerns about asbestos in damaged construction materials, or want to proceed headache-free with a planned renovation or property purchase, the EPA recommends having a properly trained and accredited professional asbestos contractor collect samples for independent laboratory testing and asbestos analysis. Asbestos can only be positively identified with a special kind of microscope. It is critical to have suspected asbestos-containing materials tested by an accredited asbestos testing lab for definitive analysis.
The resilient and fire-retardant properties of asbestos and it’s abundant availability in North America beginning in the 1950’s made it a superior substance for a wide range of consumer products, including:
- Construction materials such as ceiling and floor tiles, roofing and siding shingles, vermiculite insulation, textured paints drywall compounds, and asbestos cement
- Soundproofing, acoustic cushioning, and decorative spray coatings
- Heat-resistant protective clothing, coatings, insulation, and packaging
- Automotive brake pads, clutches, and transmission parts
The District Department of the Environment (DDoE) manages licensing of asbestos professionals, investigates legal complaints, and punishes asbestos regulation violators. Hiring a licensed, professional contractor for asbestos testing in Washington, DC, assures you obtain the necessary permit for the work needed for proper asbestos remediation for your home or business.
For efficient, effective, and safe asbestos testing in Washington, DC, contact the veteran asbestos experts at Envirotex. We can help protect you from the risks of asbestos exposure.
