Get matched with top asbestos removal specialists in Eliot, ME

Asbestos siding is harmful as it can produce fibers that, once inhaled into your respiratory system, may cause mesothelioma, other lung cancers, and a dangerous scarring of the lung tissue called asbestosis. You can contain the siding within a series of barriers, but it is our recommendation that you hire a professional to remove any asbestos in your house. Its presence can permanently alter your health and the value of your property by as much as 10% or more.

Asbestos has not been used to manufacture new siding since the early 1980s. So, while asbestos is not currently used to make new siding, it can still be present in the siding of homes built before the 1980s. The best way to know if your siding has any type of asbestos is to have a professional test it.

Whether or not to buy a home containing asbestos is ultimately a decision for the homebuyer, and there are several things to consider. When in good condition and contained, asbestos is unlikely to present a health risk—it’s when those tiny fibers are loose and airborne that they become a problem. Consider any renovations you plan on doing to the home that could disturb existing asbestos and the cost of removal. If an inspection finds asbestos in a home on the market, you could negotiate with the seller for a lower price, though this isn’t a sure thing.

Epoxying over asbestos tiles is generally considered a safe option when done correctly. Epoxy acts as a sealant, encapsulating the asbestos tiles and preventing the release of asbestos fibers into the air. The key is ensuring that the asbestos tiles are in good condition, firmly adhered to the substrate, and not damaged or deteriorating. This method is only appropriate for tiles that are undamaged and securely in place. If the asbestos tiles are already loose, damaged, or deteriorating, encapsulating them with epoxy may not be a sufficient solution, as it might not address the potential for ongoing asbestos exposure.