An estimated two to three thousand people each year in the U.S. discover they have a deadly kind of lung disease that is brought on by asbestos exposure. The number of people who die from asbestos-related diseases is 10,000 a year. Commonly those exposures to asbestos happen in the workplace but there are also a lot of people whose home exposed them to the harmful mineral and they weren’t aware that was the case. Nowadays more people are aware that their home could have asbestos and they take precautions to prevent any exposure.
Commonly Used Mineral In Old Siding
Asbestos was once used in everything from residential and commercial construction to being added to fabric and cement. The reason? It’s versatility and strength, heat resistance and insulation properties were the most common reasons. Asbestos fibers can easily become airborne when a structure that currently has asbestos, is disturbed. Over time, those breathing in these fibers will likely experience illness and possibly mesothelioma, asbestosis, and malignant lung cancer. The hardest part of diagnosing those exposed to asbestos is that it can take up to 20 years or more to start experiencing symptoms.
Older Homes = Call on a Professional
If you have been consider replacing your siding but your home is rather old, it is best to call up a professional Missouri siding contractor. They will be able to approach the job while protecting themselves from possible exposure to asbestos or other harmful substances.
Just how old does your home need to be when you consider calling a professional? Asbestos is in numerous materials that were used to construct homes and buildings that were built in 1981 or earlier. The materials that could contain asbestos include linoleum, duct wrap insulation, roofing felt, shingles, exterior slate siding, floor and ceiling tiles, boiler and pipe insulation, seam tape, sheetrock, plaster and textured ceilings. Non-residential buildings that were built in 1981 or before could also be at risk for having asbestos.
Harmful Effects of Asbestos in Old Siding
As recently mentioned, asbestosis, malignant lung cancer, and mesothelioma can be brought on by extensive (long-periods) asbestos exposure. The symptoms of those who have been exposed don’t typically make an appearance for quite a long time; commonly twenty years or more.
Let the Professionals Help Replace It
It’s hard to expect a homeowner to know what to do when it comes to replacing siding on an older home. This is why it’s best to get in touch with a professional, experienced siding contractor who is already aware of what products to use and the right techniques to replace it and limit exposure. Even if your home isn’t older, it’s always best to let a professional handle the residing of a home; homeowners can focus on the many other DIY tasks that don’t require a professional.
Replace It With Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding has become a preferred choice by many St. Louis homeowners for many reasons; the main being that no harmful chemicals are used to create the siding. Should you consider having fiber cement installed, James Hardie is our recommendation as it’s the most reputable brand in the industry and for good reason. If you’re ready to protect your family’s health, your home, and of course, your money, give Lakeside Renovation & Design a call for your siding replacement or installation needs.
