Signs You Need Professional Asbestos Removal in Your NYC Apartment
October 17, 2024 adminIf you live in New York City, you may have chosen to reside in an older building with plenty of history and character. Unfortunately, old structures may contain residual asbestos, a fire-resistant building material once commonly used in construction. Asbestos is dangerous when its fibers are released into the air and you breathe them in.
So, it’s important to know what signs indicate that your apartment in New York could have asbestos and when you might need to contact asbestos abatement professionals to remove it safely.
Understanding the Risks
Before discussing the signs, it should be clear why asbestos is an issue. As asbestos-containing materials become worn down or disturbed, they release fibers into the air. Inhalation of these fibers can lead to health complications such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
The risk is especially high for those living in older buildings that may have been built using asbestos insulation, flooring, roofing, and even textured paints prior to 1980.
Age of the Building
The age of your apartment building in New York City is a particularly good indicator of whether it contains asbestos. If the building was constructed before 1980, there’s a high likelihood that some of the materials used in its construction and/or renovation were asbestos-containing. This isn’t to say that you are at risk, but it’s worth looking into, especially if you have had any recent damage or renovations.
Visible Deterioration
Look for obvious degradations of older construction materials—chipping drywall, flaking tiles, decaying insulation—anything that could be contaminated with asbestos fibers. The mere presence of these older materials should not be cause for alarm, but avoid touching and disturbing them if they are damaged. Consult a professional for testing and possible Asbestos & Lead Removal.
Recent Renovations
If your apartment was recently renovated, the work may have released asbestos-containing materials. Renovations often involve cutting, drilling, and sanding, which are likely to have released asbestos fibers. If you were not told that asbestos was removed before renovations, contact a professional to determine if hazardous fibers exist.
Unexplained Health Issues
Since symptoms can take decades to develop, it’s wise to pay attention to any ongoing health concerns of unknown origin. Chronic, persistent coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pains can signal exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. If you develop such symptoms and can’t come up with an alternative explanation, consult with a healthcare provider and have your living environment tested for asbestos.
Professional Assessment
Due to the health risks associated with asbestos, an expert should assess the situation to determine whether removal is needed. DIY removal is not advisable, as it is dangerous and can worsen the problem by dispersing the fibers more widely.
A professional asbestos removal service will have the tools and wear the protective gear needed to safely remove and dispose of asbestos materials, keeping your apartment safe for you and your family.
The Final Word
Although living old-school in an NYC apartment has its charms, it means taking on certain responsibilities, like being alert to potential asbestos risks. Knowing what to look for can help protect your health and peace of mind. When in doubt about asbestos lurking in your apartment, don’t hesitate to contact nycrestoration.com/—a professional removal service.