Finding asbestos in your home can feel alarming — but with the right information and the right team by your side, you can handle it safely. Here’s what you need to know, and what to do next.
Asbestos was once widely used in construction materials, and it’s now recognized as a health hazard. At Environmental Services of America (ES America), we’re dedicated to asbestos testing and removal in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Let us walk you through the steps.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring, silicate-based mineral known for its fire-resistant properties. There are six different types, and all of them were commonly used in various building materials until the 1970s — including floor tiles, roof shingles, pipe insulation, fire-retardant clothing, fire blankets, and even some car parts. In the 1970s, federal regulations significantly limited the use of asbestos after it was identified as a carcinogen. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause severe health conditions, including mesothelioma, a deadly cancer.
How Do You Find Asbestos in Your Home?
If you own an older home, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) may be present — particularly in basements, attics, floor tiles, or insulation around furnaces. The trouble is, you simply cannot identify asbestos just by looking at it. Many homeowners first learn about it during a home inspection before a sale, but for those who skipped that step, the discovery can come as a real shock.
At ES America, we always stress the importance of a thorough inspection, especially for homes built before the 1970s. If you’re planning any renovation and your home falls into that age range, it’s wise to assume that some building materials might contain asbestos and take proper precautions before any work begins.
When Should You Actually Be Concerned About Asbestos Exposure?
Here’s the reassuring part: the mere presence of asbestos in your home doesn’t automatically mean you’re at risk. If asbestos-containing materials are intact, undisturbed, and out of the way, they generally do not pose a threat.
Problems arise when those materials become cracked, crumbling, or are disturbed during renovations. In those situations, asbestos fibers can be released into the air where they can be inhaled — potentially leading to serious health issues over time.
If you come across asbestos during a renovation or remodeling project, stop all work immediately and call a professional. ES America is here to assess the situation and guide you on the safest path forward.
What Happens During Asbestos Testing?
When you’ve uncovered asbestos that can’t safely be left alone — such as in walls you plan to remove or floor tiles you want to replace — the next step is professional testing. ES America, based in Atlanta, is fully equipped to provide comprehensive asbestos testing services throughout Georgia.
A certified asbestos consultant will evaluate the extent of the issue and determine how much asbestos is present. The cost of removal depends on the quantity and location of the asbestos in the building, and can sometimes run into thousands of dollars. Unfortunately, homeowner’s insurance policies often do not cover asbestos removal. We recommend checking with state agencies to explore available grants or loan programs that may help with asbestos abatement costs.
Asbestos Abatement: Why You Should Trust the Professionals
When it comes to asbestos abatement, professional removal is the only way to ensure both your safety and compliance with regulations. The process involves sealing off the affected area, encapsulating the contaminated materials, and safely removing them from the site.
It’s important to use different professionals for evaluation and abatement to avoid any conflict of interest. ES America offers certified and experienced asbestos removal services, and every step is handled according to strict state and federal guidelines.
Always ask for proof of certification from your abatement company, and hold on to copies of all documentation related to the removal — including photos showing how the materials were managed, removed, and disposed of safely. Our team at ES America is committed to full transparency and thorough documentation throughout the process.
Why DIY Asbestos Removal Isn’t Worth the Risk
Some homeowners consider tackling asbestos removal on their own, thinking basic safety gear will be enough. It won’t be. Asbestos removal is far more complex than using dust masks and spray bottles — improper handling can release asbestos fibers into the air, creating serious health risks for everyone in the home.
Improper handling can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing severe health risks.
The EPA does offer resources for people who want to become certified in asbestos removal — proper education is key for anyone who handles these materials. But for most homeowners, it is safer, faster, and more effective to rely on professionals like ES America for asbestos testing and abatement.
Ready to Get Help? We’re Here for You.
Finding asbestos in your home can be a daunting experience, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Environmental Services of America (ES America), we specialize in asbestos testing and removal services throughout Atlanta and the state of Georgia. We’re committed to a safe, efficient, and comprehensive approach to asbestos remediation.
If you suspect asbestos in your property, don’t wait. Visit our website at www.es-america.com or email us at services@es-america.com. Let’s work together to make your home a safe and healthy place for you and your family.