Most Australian homeowners are quick to answer “no” if asked whether their home contains asbestos. But despite Australia being one of 55 countries that prohibits the importation and use of asbestos, there is still a risk of asbestos being present in your home without your knowledge.
Australia has a history of mining asbestos, and had the highest per capita use of this toxic mineral worldwide for many years. With asbestos only completely banned in Australia in 2003, you and your family could be at risk of asbestos exposure. Ensure the health of your loved ones, your tenants, and your home by hiring a trained professional to detect asbestos in your home.
This helpful blog will discuss how to tell if your home has asbestos and the dangers of living in an asbestos-infested environment. But first, let’s take a closer look at what asbestos actually is.
WHAT IS ASBESTOS IN HOMES?
Asbestos is a mineral commonly used for construction projects due to its flame resistance and microscopic fibre strength. It’s commonly located in walls, ceilings, external cladding, floors, roofing and more.
Exposure to asbestos can cause serious health problems, including cancer, asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung scarring. You run the risk of asbestos exposure during home renovations, particularly of older houses, which is why it’s wise to have your home inspected for asbestos by Class A professional asbestos removalists or an LAA / licensed asbestos assessor before you begin any structural work on your property.
The asbestos removalist you contact should be trained and accredited. It’s not worth the risk of haphazardly conducting asbestos testing with untrained people – you, your loved ones’ or your tenants’ health and safety should be placed above all else.
HOW TO TELL IF A HOUSE HAS ASBESTOS
Are you wondering what the signs are that there is asbestos in your home? While the only way to tell for sure is to hire a professional, here are some common signs to look out for:
- If you live in a home that was built before 1990
- Damaged walls, ceilings or flooring
- Lagging or crumbling plaster
- Wallpaper coming loose or the texture changing over time
- Unusual “spider web” looking cracks in ceilings or walls
Whatever you do, do not attempt to remove asbestos yourself. If you disturb asbestos and it isn’t removed properly, you risk spreading asbestos fibres, which can pose serious health issues for loved ones.
If you notice any signs of damaged materials in your home that could potentially contain asbestos, you should have your house inspected by a trained asbestos professional. If they identify asbestos in your home, have it removed before it causes any health issues.
WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE GBAR GROUP FOR ASBESTOS INSPECTION AND REMOVAL SERVICES
At the GBAR Group, our licensed team of professionals are fully trained and certified to carry out all types of asbestos removal. We can conduct testing of building materials to ensure they are asbestos-free so you can have a sound sleep, knowing your family is safe from any adverse asbestos-related health risks. We assess and remove asbestos products and remediate any damage left behind, providing cost-effective solutions while adhering to all health and safety regulations.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to assumed asbestos presence in your home. Our goal is to maintain the health and safety of you and your loved ones. Our priority is returning your home to you in a livable condition so you no longer need to worry about your health and wellness in the comfort of your own home.
At the GBAR Group, we service clients across all industries, from construction and education to residential properties. If you’re in the market for asbestos survey and removal services, request a consultation today.
