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Combatting Asbestos Insulation

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The rustic charm of older homes is sometimes a breathtaking sight, but unknowing danger can be lurking in the walls. Yes, you probably have checked for poisonous radon levels and even understand that the lead paint used in older homes is quite dangerous. However, there is one thing you might have overlooked when purchasing that old farmhouse. And, that’s asbestos.

What is Asbestos?


Asbestos is a heat-resistant mineral that was used in building materials, such as insulation, for years. It’s nearly indestructible, which made it a great insulator for homes and businesses; along with it’s resistance to fire and electricity. However, that’s not what makes it famous today.

The Dangers of Asbestos


This one-time, everyday building material poses a significant threat to your health. When renovating a structure with asbestos, tiny fibers can be drawn into your lungs. The health risks might not be evident until later in your life but are very dangerous nonetheless. The most common diseases that can develop are lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the term you might have heard the most associated with asbestos. It is an aggressive form of cancer that forms within the walls of your lungs, stomach, and heart. Some of the symptoms include weight loss, shortness of breath, and extreme pain in near your abdomen. As of right now, there is no definitive cure, but treatments exist to combat this fatal disease.

Removing Asbestos Insulation


To avoid absorbing the fibers of asbestos insulation into your lungs, Marvel Industrial Coatings wants to provide you with a safe way to dispose of the material.

You or a professional should soak the asbestos with water to prevent the fibers from floating through the air and into your body. You should seal off the area of your home that you plan on removing the asbestos insulation in case some fibers escape into the air. A respirator should be used to filter the air during removal, but you shouldn’t be using any kind of respirator. You are going to need one designed to filter the asbestos fibers.

To go along with the respirator, you should protect yourself with gloves, air-sealed goggles, and a face mask. It would probably be a good idea to wear clothing that you feel comfortable disposing of after the removal process. After the asbestos insulation is removed, wait a day because fibers that were kicked up will have settled. You should then clean the area of your home with water yet again to clean the remaining fibers.

Disposing of the insulation can be tricky, so you will need to check with local health officials to learn where you can get rid of the asbestos.

You Need the Right Insulation


If you’re thinking about what to insulate your home with next, turn to Marvel. We offer high-end spray foam insulation that won’t affect your health. Our insulation is cost-effective, saves energy, protects your home and family from harsh weather elements, along with long list of household benefits.

If you’re interested, contact our experts today. We look forward to speaking with you!