Asbestos is one of the most controversial building materials ever used in the world. It’s been banned in most countries, America included, and clean up of buildings that used asbestos is still under way across the nation. Asbestos is a naturally occurring substance that can cause serious health issues when inhaled. When used in building projects, asbestos can be inhaled more frequently because of the way it’s utilized.
What to Worry About with Asbestos in Shingles
The 19th century saw widespread use of asbestos in a variety of construction and building projects. Everything from roofing to insulation to drywall and everything in between contained asbestos in some form or another. Back then, nobody knew the risks or dangers surrounding long-term asbestos inhalation. Nowadays, it’s a banned building material and buildings found to be in violation of its use are torn down after a long, drawn out safety process to contain the hazardous materials.
No roofing company today uses asbestos in shingles. In fact, roofing practices and building materials have changed to be safer and healthier since then. No roofer in their right mind would use asbestos-based shingles on any project nor can these types of shingles be produced or sold in the United States.
If you’re living in an older home and you’ve never had any repairs done to your roof that you could be using an older type of shingle that may contain asbestos. If you think this is the case, don’t call a roofer. Call the city who will schedule an inspection with someone with the proper safety gear required to deal with the conditions. Hopefully, your roof will be safe and no asbestos in shingles will be present. If that’s not the case, then you’ll be required by the city to replace the roof, which becomes a completely different assortment of problems.
While most homes have already had their roofs replaced or repaired, you’ll find very few with asbestos still residing in shingles or used in the roofing process. If you’re not sure about your home, call the city and schedule an inspection with the proper authorities to ensure you’re living under a safe roof.
Recent Comments