Asbestos was used widely in building construction due to its properties as a fire retardant, insulator, and sound dampener, amount other things. While we’ve already posted an overview of asbestos building materials, this article will double down on one of the specific uses of asbestos. Much of asbestos found in home and businesses today comes in the form of insulation. Let’s go over the four basic types of insulation, their composition, and what kind of dangers that they pose. [Read more…] about Types of Asbestos Insulation in Buildings
Archives for October 2017
Is Asbestos Man-Made or Naturally Occurring?
Today we know the many health dangers of asbestos. We know how it causes cancer and scarring of the lungs. But up until the 80s, it saw use in construction throughout the United States and it’s still used in several applications here and around the world. Many think that asbestos is manmade. After all, it’s asbestos fibers that are deadly and most construction fibers, such as those in fiberglass, are manmade. Therefore, you might be surprised to know that asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. Let’s learn more about how asbestos is formed and how its natural occurrence has caused contributed to its problems. [Read more…] about Is Asbestos Man-Made or Naturally Occurring?
Understanding Sick Building Syndrome
Have you or someone you’ve known complained about being mildly unwell, something that gradually sets in and they just can’t seem to shake? Many who experience this wonder if they are sick: if this is some sort of low-level infection or a sign of a much more dangerous long-term illness. Some think to change their routine, habits, or exercise more. However, few think about how it could be the building they work or live in that could be causing this, something that is known as Sick Building Syndrome. [Read more…] about Understanding Sick Building Syndrome
Lead Remediation: Why Is There Lead in Paint?
When it comes to older homes prior to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s 1977 ban on the use of lead paints in residential properties and public buildings, they may contain lead paint. While not inherently dangerous, if this lead paint flakes or is chipped off and consumed (or exposed during renovations) it can cause significant health issues, especially in developing children. But why iss there lead in paint in the first place? [Read more…] about Lead Remediation: Why Is There Lead in Paint?
