Introduction to Asbestos and Its Risks
- Speaker: Mario Ramirez, Licensed Asbestos Contractor
- Overview: While cooking a steak, Mario discusses a commonly asked question about what asbestos is. He explains that asbestos is a fibrous mineral found in stone, which, when inhaled or consumed, can cause lung scarring and diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis.
Asbestos Meaning and Implications
- Different Interpretations: Asbestos means different things to different people, impacting various scenarios like real estate transactions, building renovations, and homeowner concerns.
- Health Impact: The primary concern is the health risk associated with inhaling asbestos fibers, leading to serious lung diseases.
Real Estate Transactions and Asbestos
- Need for Inspections: Mario stresses the importance of asbestos inspections before listing properties, especially those built between 1900 and 1990. Despite asbestos not being completely banned after 1990, it’s rare in homes built after this year.
- Benefits of Pre-Listing Inspections: Conducting an asbestos test before listing can prevent confusion and issues during the sale process. Asbestos can be hidden in various building materials, making it hard to detect without a professional inspection.
- Advice for Handling Asbestos Findings: If asbestos is found during the due diligence period, it’s crucial to get a professional inspection to determine the extent of asbestos presence and how to safely manage or remove it.
Implications for Builders and Renovators
- Precautionary Measures: Builders and renovators are advised to conduct asbestos tests before starting demolition or renovation projects to prevent fiber release and exposure.
- Case Examples: Mario provides examples of how asbestos can be found in commercial and residential renovation projects, emphasizing the importance of proper removal and containment procedures.
Homeowners and Asbestos Awareness
- Understanding Risks: Homeowners should be aware of the potential presence of asbestos in their homes, especially if their homes were built before 1990.
- Asbestos in Air: Testing for airborne asbestos can be challenging, as fibers can hide in various places within a home. However, the risk from airborne fibers inside might be similar to outdoor exposure.
- Advice: Homeowners are advised not to disturb materials suspected of containing asbestos and to conduct professional testing if there are concerns about potential contamination.
Conclusion and Call to Action
- Summary of Recommendations: Mario summarizes the importance of asbestos testing for real estate transactions, renovations, and homeowner awareness.
- Final Thoughts: Knowledge and precautionary measures can significantly reduce the risks associated with asbestos exposure.
- Invitation for Questions: Mario invites viewers to ask questions or contact him for more information.