Asbestos was first used in homes and buildings because of its resistance to heat and fire. It was something that was meant to protect us and this is why you would have found it throughout homes and buildings into the 20th century. It has been used as a strengthener for plastics and in insulation. It was in the 1970s that scientists started seeing the damaging effects of asbestos and it was banned from things like gas fireplaces and hairdryers. If you're worried about this substance than this information might help you to understand it a little better.

It is when asbestos fibers are released into the air that they can become harmful to a person's health. If someone breaths them in than they can become trapped in the lungs and stay there for an extended period of time. The illness that this causes is called asbestosis and can cause shortness of breath to permanent lung disease. You could even get an increased risk of contracting lung cancer. This is why so many people are worried about asbestos being present in old homes and office buildings.

The most severe of the afflictions caused by exposure to asbestos can take up to thirty years to fully present themselves. There are other things that can make your condition even worse if you are exposed. Those that have a smoker in the home are at a higher risk of diseases that could turn out to be deadly.

If you're currently living in a home that was build in the 1980s or later than you likely don't have to worry too much about asbestos. But, it is recommended that those that are thinking of purchasing a property that is more than thirty years old should make sure that their home inspection includes a check for this substance. Remember that it is only when asbestos gets into the air that it is dangerous to a person's health. That means that not all forms of the substance are going to be harmful to your health. This is still a chemical compound that is used throughout the world and you should make sure that it is potential harmful before you spend the money to have it removed from your home or business.

The only real way that you can tell if any asbestos in your office or home is going to be an issue is to have it tested. When you ask an inspection company like Rotondi Mold Assessors to complete a home mold inspection clarify with the inspector that he or she will also be checking for asbestos. This should be done by a qualified professional if you want to make sure that you're getting an accurate assessment. Sometimes the best way to handle it is to not handle it at all.