If your home was built before the 1990s, there’s a good chance that some of its materials may contain asbestos. This mineral was once widely used in flooring, ceilings, insulation, and walls because it was durable and fire-resistant. The problem is, when asbestos is disturbed during a renovation, it can release tiny fibers into the air that are harmful when breathed in. For this reason, knowing when to call an asbestos removal company before starting any major work is not just important for safety—it can protect your health, your family, and your investment.
1. Your Home Was Built Before 1990
Older houses are the most common places to find asbestos. Back then, builders used it in many areas, from attic insulation to vinyl flooring. If you live in a house that was built before 1990 and you’re planning renovations, the chances are high that asbestos is present somewhere.
Here are a few areas where it was often used:
- Pipe insulation in basements and crawl spaces
- Ceiling tiles and textured “popcorn” ceilings
- Old vinyl floor tiles and the glue underneath
- Roofing shingles and siding
- Plaster or drywall joint compound
You may not always see asbestos just by looking. Even small projects like replacing flooring or tearing out walls can disturb it. If your home fits this timeline, it’s best to get a professional inspection before moving forward with any renovations.
2. You Notice Crumbling or Damaged Building Materials
Asbestos is most dangerous when it becomes “friable,” which means the material can easily crumble and release dust into the air. Renovations often expose or damage these materials, increasing the risk.
Look out for these warning signs in your home:
- Ceiling plaster that is cracking or flaking
- Old insulation around pipes that looks worn or powdery
- Flooring that is breaking apart
- Wallboards that are soft or deteriorating
If you spot these issues, stop work right away. Handling them yourself without the right training or equipment can put your health in danger. A licensed professional has the skills and tools to remove or contain the problem safely.
3. You Plan to Renovate or Demolish Certain Areas
Some renovation projects have a higher chance of disturbing asbestos than others. If you’re planning to:
- Tear down walls or ceilings
- Replace old flooring or carpets
- Remove or upgrade insulation
- Renovate bathrooms with older tiles or wallboards
- Demolish a garage, shed, or basement
…then it’s a smart idea to arrange for asbestos testing before you start. Even if you’re only doing a “small” job like replacing flooring, asbestos can still be released into the air. Testing helps you know exactly what you’re dealing with so you can take the right steps.
4. You’re Unsure About Old Renovations Done in the Past
Sometimes, previous homeowners may have renovated parts of the house without removing asbestos. Instead, they may have just covered it up with new flooring, drywall, or paint. While this might have looked fine for years, new renovations can disturb those hidden layers.
For example:
- New flooring installed on top of old asbestos tiles
- Fresh drywall placed over existing plaster walls
- Old ceilings painted to hide textured asbestos finishes
If you’re unsure what’s under the surface, it’s best not to guess. A professional can take samples and give you a clear answer before you start ripping things apart. This not only keeps your home safe but also helps you plan your renovation costs better.
5. You Want to Protect Your Family’s Health
The most important reason to bring in professionals is health. Asbestos fibers are too small to see but very harmful when inhaled. They can stay in the lungs for years and may cause diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, or mesothelioma.
Renovations increase the risk of exposure because they disturb the materials where asbestos hides. Families with young children, elderly members, or anyone with breathing problems need to be especially careful. Even if you’re not doing major renovations, any activity that damages old materials could create a risk.
When you call in experts, they not only remove asbestos safely but also take steps to keep dust from spreading around your home. They use protective gear, sealed work zones, and special vacuums to make sure your living space is safe after the work is done.
What to Do if You Suspect Asbestos
If you think your home may contain asbestos, here are simple steps you can take:
- Pause any renovation work immediately if you see suspicious materials.
- Don’t touch or disturb the area—even scraping or sanding can release fibers.
- Call a professional for testing and advice before moving forward.
- Get a written report on what was found and how it should be handled.
Trying to manage the problem on your own may seem cheaper, but the health risks and potential cleanup costs are much higher if asbestos spreads.
How Professionals Handle the Job
Certified contractors use methods that keep your home and family safe. Here’s what typically happens:
- They inspect and test the areas that may contain asbestos.
- Work zones are sealed off with barriers and air filtration systems.
- Protective suits and respirators are used by the team.
- Materials are carefully removed, bagged, and disposed of following strict regulations.
- The area is cleaned and checked to make sure it’s safe before the project ends.
This process is designed to reduce risk at every stage, something that isn’t possible with DIY methods.
Simple Checks That Protect Your Family Before Renovation
If your home is older, damaged, or about to undergo renovations, paying attention to these warning signs can save you from serious health risks. Hiring an asbestos removal company before you begin ensures that your project is safe and your home stays healthy.
A trusted name like MSN Environmental can inspect, test, and handle asbestos the right way so you can move forward with confidence.
