If you have ever bought a home then
chances are remodeling has entered into the picture at some point. This is
especially true with older houses whose charm could use some updating. It is
certainly worth the time and effort to bring some of these masterpieces back to
their showroom quality. However in doing so there are issues that homeowners
have to deal with along the way.
Two of the most common problems that are
found when renovating an older home are lead and asbestos. Neither one should
be handled by the do it yourselfer. It takes a licensed professional to remove
both of these items safely.
In the past asbestos was commonly used
for insulating and as a retardant against fires. This was quite common in the
50s, 60s and 70s. It was also used a great deal in vinyl flooring, roofing and
siding. Any home that is at least 30 years of age will most likely contain
asbestos in some places. That is why it is important to schedule an asbestos
inspection.
The main health issue linked with this
material is cancer. The danger posed by this threat is when fibers are released
into the air and breathed into your lungs. When discovering asbestos material
in your home, it is best to halt the renovation process and call a licensed
contractor. This type of material cannot be recycled. It is important to
contact the building authorities in your area to find out the proper methods of asbestos
removal to ensure that it is done safely.
The other major issue when renovating a
home is lead.
It is a chemical compound that was used
in the paint industry in the 70s mainly for coloring purposes. A number of
physical maladies have been linked to lead-based paint and including nerve
damage, stunted growth among children and hearing loss. The issue wasn't
discovered positively until 1978 when it was banned from use in paints.
Lead is one of the most toxic compounds
that can be taken into the human body. It can affect all of the major organ
system and will pass right through many of the dust masks that people wear when
renovating a home. That is why it is essential to contact a licensed specialist
who is familiar with lead paint removal. Renovating an older home with this
issue is not something that you should ever attempt to do yourself. When
removing any kind of paint, avoid sanding and scraping unless you have
certified that it does not contain any lead. This can help to prevent the
harmful effects that are caused by this chemical.
Lead and asbestos are 2 of the deadliest
hazards that can be encountered during a home renovation.
They are not issues that can be dealt
with by a homeowner. A professional who is trained and knowledgeable in the
abatement of these substances should be contacted to provide for the health of
all occupants. Homeowners have to do their own due diligence when dealing with
chemical compounds of this type. Renovation of older homes can be a labor of
love.
There are unforeseen expenses, issues
that tend to crop up and ideas that tend to get changed along the way. But 1
thing that should never be altered is the proper abatement of lead and
asbestos.
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