Asbestos was widely used as a component of the roof covered in splash in houses or as roof tiles. It was also used as a decorative spray on the walls or for soundproofing purposes. However, lately there has been much concern regarding the use of asbestos roof tiles due to the harmful effects that asbestos particles have on human health.
Asbestos can come in different forms, from pipes to roofs. For that reason, asbestos removal can be very different, depending on the structure where you are. In addition, it is not always dangerous, it is only dangerous when it is in poor condition. One of the most frequent structures that usually has asbestos are the outer covers of fiber cement.
The first thing the professional should do is evaluate the state of the structure. For this, the workers of the specialized company are equipped with individual protections to guarantee their safety, such as masks with particle filters and disposable work clothes with hoods.
In the following article we will explain how to remove asbestos from your home, following the advice of a professional that guarantees the safety of the process.
Techniques used to Remove Asbestos
Depending on where the asbestos is, one technique or another is used. One of the most frequent withdrawals is asbestos from the outer covers. So that asbestos is not dispersed during removal, an aqueous solution is applied. In this way, the plates can be removed with the greatest possible precaution.
When it comes to removing the metal structure of a building, the technique used is usually much more complex. In addition, poor manipulation of the structure could have fatal consequences for any citizen who will be around the withdrawal zone. For that reason, specialists must be trained on the work protocol and strictly follow it.
Likewise, any of the techniques used has the main objective of preventing the release of dust with asbestos fibers in the environment, thus protecting the health of workers and citizens in the area.
Once asbestos has been removed, it must be wrapped in a plastic material that does not pass any asbestos particles. The specialized company will manage the waste to dispose of it safely.
Removing the uralite or the fiber cement is not complicated but dangerous. For all these reasons you should not carry out the withdrawal autonomously. Withdrawal is a complex process that must be carried out by professionals who know the technique and ensure its safety and that of the population.
Dangers of Asbestos Roof Tiles
Asbestos contains silicate fibers that can become airborne when physical force is applied to the tiles. When inhaled, these fibers are retained by the lungs and cause lung disorders, such as mesothelioma or asbestosis. Even if the ceilings do not have asbestos, certain insulation materials such as Zonolite, which is used in the attic floors, can release toxic levels of asbestos while fixing a ceiling fan or a light.
Asbestos shingles may contain formaldehyde and other volatile organic components. Asbestos found in shingles, if it is in good condition, does not cause any risk, but if it is released, moistened or crumbled, it is dangerous. Drilling and scraping said material are a health hazard. In these cases, building owners and experts can remove asbestos roof tiles or take the necessary measures to avoid exposure to asbestos.
Some steps to follow are:
- Select low emission shingles that are certified by a reputable organization.
- Use porous tiles that trap odors and emitted chemicals released by construction activities.
- Install roof tiles in a building only after you have painted, placed the floor, or finished any other type of work. This prevents roof tiles from absorbing and retaining organic chemicals and solvents.
- Recycle old tiles in new programs.
- Hire professionals to rebuild asbestos shingles that adhere to safety rules and regulations. Avoid sanding and polishing asbestos floors.
- Use an aqueous diluent to soften the paint or varnish or use low abrasion sanders at less than 300 rpm to avoid exposure.
- Report any broken roof tiles to the Department of Health and Environmental Safety.