Asbestos Siding on Homes May Expose People to Dangerous Asbestos Fibers

Cinnaminson, NJ, September 18th, 2012
 
Many homes built between the 1930s and the 1970s were constructed using asbestos siding and shingles on the exterior of the property.  Due to the material’s strength, durability and fire resistant properties it was a popular ingredient in both manmade shingles and siding products.  Over time, these materials can become damaged and begin to degrade.  When this occurs, cancer causing asbestos fibers can be released into the air. 
 
Many older homes have undergone renovation activities over the years.  Unfortunately, many times this has meant that new siding or shingles were placed over the asbestos laden materials.  These renovation projects may have taken place decades ago and now even the newer siding and shingles need replacing.
 
Some properties owners take on these renovation projects on their own and do not realize that the materials they are removing from their homes may contain asbestos.  The simple process of tearing off shingles or sidings will almost surely release asbestos fibers into the air.
 
There are regulations that control how asbestos laden materials are handled.  According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “If it is deteriorated -- broken and crumbling -- and it has to be removed, a certified asbestos contractor should be hired to do the job. The waste has to be handled according to requirements and disposed of in an approved hazardous waste landfill.”
 
“People who buy older properties and begin renovation activities typically don’t think about environmental risks such as asbestos and lead that many of these older homes possess in abundance,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, a leading asbestos testing laboratory. “People need to test to see if old siding and shingles contain asbestos.  If it does, a qualified asbestos professional should be hired to safely remove the materials.  Fortunately, EMSL offers quick and affordable testing services to determine the presence of asbestos in all types of building materials.  This should be done on any suspect materials before beginning home renovation projects in an older home,” he continued.
 
EMSL has sponsored an educational video about asbestos dangers in the home.  It can be seen at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCpQYuK8ge8
 
People wishing to have their sample tested by EMSL should visit www.AsbestosTestingLab.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com