Many homes constructed before 1975 in the Contra Costa and Alameda county area have some kind of asbestos on site. At All Things Good, our experience working with older homes to improve indoor air quality is something you can rely on to keep your family safe from asbestos.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a highly effective fire retardant and insulator that was used extensively in homes prior to 1975. It has been prohibited because prolonged exposure to the tiny asbestos fibers can cause lung disease. In many older homes, asbestos was used for thermal insulation around furnace ducts and boilers. Asbestos can also be found in certain types of shingles, flooring and popcorn ceiling finishes.
Identifying Potential Asbestos is Key to Safe Removal
Many of our customers are unaware of the presence of asbestos products in their homes. In most cases, as long as it is sealed and not disturbed, asbestos is not a hazard. However, in the course of our work to improve your home’s efficiency, we may identify potential asbestos installations in your home. We often come across asbestos when we’re conducting an energy audit and inspecting your home’s attic, crawlspace and HVAC areas. Some areas where asbestos may be found include:
Furnace, boiler and duct wrappings
Flooring (both vinyl and some linoleum)
Exterior fiber cement board and shingles
Plaster
It all seems a bit scary, but rest assured the technicians at All Things Good know what these asbestos applications look like! We can coordinate safe, certified testing, asbestos abatement and removal.
Asbestos Testing & Removal
California code requires a certified asbestos professional to test, remove and certify their work for areas 100 square feet or more. Regardless of code requirement, it is extremely important to safely and completely remove any and all asbestos to keep your family safe. If potential asbestos is identified, the asbestos contractor will first test for the fibers. If the tests are positive, then the removal will commence. They will use extreme care in sealing off the area of your home to be cleaned. Because of the work required, most families move out temporarily to allow work crews to work quickly and safely. The crew will suit up in protective gear and use breathing equipment to avoid inhaling asbestos.
Proper Disposal & Certification
Asbestos cannot be taken to a regular sanitation site, but requires specific disposal to protect from contamination. Using a licensed asbestos contractor is important because they will provide disposal in an approved dump site. The licensed asbestos contractor will also provide asbestos removal certification documents that will be required when your home is sold or transferred.