When buying a home, there are many factors to consider. If you're looking at older homes, one of those factors is asbestos testing. Homes built before 1980 may contain asbestos, a potentially hazardous material used in many common building products. Here are some important facts about the nature and purpose of this material that can help you make an informed decision on whether or not you want to buy an older home containing asbestos.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos has been used for centuries as a fire retardant and insulator, but it was especially popular in the U.S. from around 1930 until 1980. You could commonly find insulation, pipe wraps, shingle boards, ceiling tiles, and even flooring and glues made with asbestos. This natural material was great for heat insulation, but it also came with some potential dangers. Its super-fine fibers, when airborne, can cause lung damage. Prolonged or excessive exposure can cause lacerations in the throat and lungs, and it could even lead to cancer such as mesothelioma. With all its dangers, asbestos can certainly make someone nervous when purchasing an older home.

What Should You Know Before Buying a Home With Asbestos?

The most important thing to know is that you have options if you find asbestos. Real estate agents have to disclose asbestos issues if the homeowners know of any, and a home inspector can often see signs of asbestos during a regular inspection. If you suspect asbestos, call a licensed specialist to see what kind of asbestos clean-up might be needed. You can negotiate with the homeowners to have them cover part or all of the cost of removal and disposal.

What Are Options if You Purchase?

There are three ways to tackle an asbestos issue: leave it alone, contain it, or remove it. Asbestos is only dangerous if the products are damaged or if you are planning on tearing them apart for a renovation. Your asbestos testing process will give you information on what kinds of risks there are in your home.

If any asbestos products are completely undamaged, they can be left alone indefinitely. If there is some concern that the products and materials may become disturbed, or if there's slight damage, containment will keep any further damage from being done. But if the products are damaged or if you plan to renovate, removal is your safest option. This requires a full professional crew to contain and remove the products and any particulates in the air. While it's a difficult process, it will guarantee that you have no further issues with asbestos.

If you're looking to buy an older home that could contain asbestos, trust Action Asbestos Removal in Montville, CT. They provide guaranteed asbestos testing, containment, and removal services in southeastern Connecticut. With a history of careful and thorough removal, you'll be able to sleep well in your new home, no matter its age. Visit them online or call (860) 848-2912 at any time of day or night.