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My Asbestos Guy LLC Blog is your go-to source for expert insights, industry updates, and essential information on asbestos inspection and abatement in Denver, CO, and the surrounding areas, including Boulder, Arvada, and beyond. Our blog is dedicated to educating homeowners, business owners, and property managers on the risks of asbestos, the latest regulations, and best practices for maintaining a safe environment. With content written by our certified professionals, we provide in-depth articles, tips, and guides to help you navigate asbestos-related concerns with confidence. Stay informed with My Asbestos Guy LLC Blog and make informed decisions about asbestos safety and removal.
What Homeowners Need To Know About Asbestos
A simple post to understanding asbestos and when you need to test.
What Homeowners Need to Know About Asbestos
If you own an older home—especially one built before the 1980s—you may have heard warnings about asbestos. It’s a word that comes up often in home inspections and renovations, but what is it, and should you be worried?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of heat-resistant fibers. It was once widely used in construction materials because it’s strong, fireproof, and a great insulator. You’ll often find it in:
- Insulation around pipes and attics
- Popcorn ceilings and textured wall coatings
- Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives
- Roofing materials
- Siding and cement board
If your home was built before the mid-1980s, there's a good chance some materials contain asbestos.
Why Is Asbestos a Concern?
The problem with asbestos is what happens when it gets disturbed—say during a renovation or repair. If materials that contain asbestos are damaged or cut into, they can release tiny fibers into the air. When inhaled, these fibers can cause serious health problems, including:
- Lung scarring (asbestosis)
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma (a rare cancer linked to asbestos exposure)
These health risks usually come from long-term or heavy exposure, but even small amounts can be dangerous over time.
Should You Be Worried?
Not necessarily. If asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and left undisturbed, they usually don’t pose a risk. The danger comes when those materials are broken, cut, sanded, or removed improperly.
The most important thing:
If you suspect asbestos in your home,
don’t try to handle it yourself. Always hire a
certified asbestos professional to test and, if necessary, safely remove it.
When to Call a Pro
Here are a few situations when you should bring in an expert:
- Planning a renovation or demolition in your home
- Noticing damaged ceiling or floor tiles that may contain asbestos
- Buying or selling an older home and want peace of mind
Quick Tips for Homeowners:
- Don’t disturb suspected asbestos materials.
- Always test before renovating.
- Leave removal to certified professionals.
- Ask about asbestos during home inspections.
Asbestos isn’t something to panic over—but it’s something every homeowner should be informed about. A little caution now can prevent big problems later.
Colorado Regulation for homes newer than 1988
Buildings, or those portions thereof, that were constructed after October 12, 1988 will be exempt from this inspection requirement if, after due diligence, the architect or project engineer responsible for the construction of the building, or a Colorado certified Asbestos Building Inspector, completes a form specified by the Division that no ACM was used as a building material in the initial construction of the building or subsequent renovations (if applicable). NOTE: The Division recommends that all buildings be inspected prior to any renovation or demolition activities, regardless of the date of construction.
Contact us today for more information or to schedule you inspection:
My Asbestos Guy LLC 720-850-4890 or email us at Jon@MyAsbestosGuy.com