Get matched with top asbestos removal specialists in Hale Center, TX

In most cities, it isn’t legal to cover asbestos tile. This is because it’s difficult for the average homeowner to know if they’re causing fibers to become airborne. While there is a method of sealing the asbestos in place—called encapsulation—this needs to be done by a pro, and isn’t appropriate for all situations. 

Asbestos is a carcinogen, meaning it increases the risk of cancer. Inhaling asbestos fibers is linked to several respiratory issues, including asbestosis, or scarring on the lungs, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, another type of cancer. There's also a link between asbestos exposure and an increased risk of colon cancer and other cancers of the digestive system.

Usually, the people most at risk for disease related to asbestos exposure are those who spend a lot of time working around the material without protection. Electricians who work with asbestos wire have a higher risk of developing mesothelioma or lung cancer due to their exposure.

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.

Since the EPA partially banned asbestos use in 1989, it is not commonly used in siding in the United States. Many other countries, such as Iceland, Canada, and Denmark, also have bans on asbestos. However, asbestos siding is still present in homes built before the late 1980s. Remember, the only surefire way to know if your home or siding contains asbestos is to have it lab-tested by a professional.