The signs of asbestos exposure are often subtle and may not appear for many years, or even decades, after initial contact. This long latency period is one of the primary dangers associated with asbestos.
When symptoms do manifest, they can include:
Shortness of breath
A persistent, dry cough
Chest pain or tightness
Fatigue
Wheezing
Weight loss
Difficulty swallowing
A dry, crackling sound from the lungs when breathing
These symptoms are non-specific and can be mistaken for other respiratory conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious diseases as the asbestos fibers cause scarring and inflammation in the lungs. These conditions include asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
Due to the vague nature of early symptoms, regular medical check-ups are crucial for anyone with a known history of asbestos exposure, particularly in an occupational setting. If you suspect asbestos is present in your home, a professional inspection is recommended.
Asbestos itself does not typically leak from a roof. However, if an asbestos-containing roof is damaged or deteriorated, it can release asbestos fibers into the air. This can occur when the roof is disturbed, such as during maintenance or repairs, or due to weathering over time. Exposure to airborne asbestos fibers can be harmful to health, so it is important to address any damaged asbestos roofs promptly and safely.
While a professional can always help, there are some common plumbing culprits you can check yourself to see if you can find the sewer gas smell. For example, you should check your water traps, sometimes called P-traps and S-traps, which are located under sink, shower, and laundry drains. The wax ring beneath the base of your toilet, which creates a watertight seal with the plumbing, could also have gone bad.
Professional asbestos testers or environmental consultants are the best people to call to test for asbestos. An asbestos testing company specializes in collecting and analyzing samples and will be the most qualified to do the job for you. An environmental consultant may not specialize in handling asbestos, but should still have the knowledge and know-how to safely collect a sample and send it off for analysis.
Testing and analysis take 10 days to 2 weeks. Expedited services are available for urgent situations typically requiring higher fees.
The Engelhard, NC homeowners’ guide to percolation testing services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Dry wells are handy for anyone who’s experiencing drainage problems. But dry well installation costs can vary depending on its size, location, and volume.
The time it takes to replace a septic tank depends on a few factors. Sometimes the fix is simple, but even if it’s not, here’s how long it takes to replace a septic tank.
A perc test for septic analyzes the absorption rate of the soil where a tank is going to be installed. Learn more about the test, cost, and passing grades.