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Since DIY asbestos removal isn’t the best option to save money, there are other steps that you can take to help cut costs when dealing with this project. After speaking with your asbestos removal expert, discuss if encapsulation is an option. If it is, you can save between 15% to 25% on overall project costs over demolition and disposal. In addition, when speaking with your professional, discuss if there are any tax credits available for your removal project. Finally, check with your homeowner’s insurance to see if any removal costs might be covered. However, be aware that this is usually only applicable if the asbestos is due to a covered incident, like a tree falling into your roof.  

The microscopic asbestos fibers do not cause eye irritation, throat irritation, or lung irritation. If you are inhaling fibers, you will not know it. This lack of immediate symptoms is one of the reasons why asbestos is so dangerous. You cannot know for certain if you are inhaling fibers, which is why you must wear safety gear if you could have any chance of an exposure while working.

According to the National Cancer Institute, asbestos-related diseases can take anywhere from 10 to 40 years for symptoms to appear. The health risks increase with prolonged and heavier exposure. Risk factors also include:

• Amount of exposure

• Chemical makeup, size, and shape of the asbestos fibers

• Length of time a person is exposed to asbestos

• Genetic factors 

• Source of exposure (direct exposure or secondhand exposure from someone directly exposed)

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.