How To Test A Wall For Asbestos In Sussex

Are you planning to renovate your home in Sussex? It's important to know if your walls contain asbestos, a hazardous material that can cause lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. Asbestos was commonly used in building materials before the 1990s, so if your home was built before that, it's likely that it contains asbestos.

The good news is, it's not difficult to test a wall for asbestos. In this article, we'll explain how to do it yourself, or how to hire a professional asbestos testing company in Sussex like Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex to do it for you.

Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?

Asbestos is a group of mineral fibers that were used in a variety of building materials because of their strength, heat resistance, and insulating properties. But when asbestos fibers are released into the air and inhaled, they can cause serious health problems, including:

• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
• Lung cancer: Asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, especially in smokers.
• Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease that causes scarring of the lung tissue, making it difficult to breathe.

Materials That May Contain Asbestos

Asbestos can be found in many building materials, including:

• Insulation: Asbestos was commonly used in insulation materials because of its heat resistance and insulating properties. Insulation materials that may contain asbestos include pipe insulation, furnace insulation, and attic insulation.
• Flooring: Vinyl tiles, sheet flooring, and adhesives used in flooring may contain asbestos.
• Roofing: Asbestos was commonly used in roofing materials because of its durability and fire resistance. Roofing materials that may contain asbestos include shingles, felt, and roofing cement.
• Walls: Asbestos was also used in some wall materials such as plaster, drywall, and joint compound.
• Pipes: Asbestos was used in pipes for its heat-resistance and insulation properties.

How To Test A Wall For Asbestos

Testing a wall for asbestos is a simple process, but it can be dangerous if you don't follow safety precautions. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Wear Protective Gear

Before you start testing a wall for asbestos, you should wear protective gear to prevent inhaling any asbestos fibers that may be released. Protective gear includes:

• A respirator: A mask that filters out asbestos fibers from the air you breathe.
• Disposable coveralls: Coveralls that you only wear once and dispose of afterward.
• Gloves: Gloves that protect your hands from asbestos fibers.
• Goggles: Goggles that protect your eyes from asbestos fibers.

Step 2: Isolate The Area

Isolate the area where you'll be testing the wall by closing doors and windows and covering any vents to prevent asbestos fibers from spreading to other parts of your home.

Step 3: Obtain A Sample

Obtain a sample of the wall material using a utility knife or a drill. Use caution not to create too much dust. Wetting the area first may help to control dust. Place the sample in a plastic bag, and make sure to label the bag clearly. Keep the sample away from children or pets until it can be tested for asbestos.

Step 4: Call A Professional Asbestos Testing Company

The safest way to test a wall for asbestos is to hire a professional asbestos testing company in Sussex like Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex. Asbestos testing requires specialized equipment and expertise, and professionals have the necessary training and certification to do it safely and accurately.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex is a trusted asbestos testing company in the South East of England. Our licensed and experienced technicians use the latest technology to detect asbestos in your home or workplace. We offer affordable rates and fast turnaround times for all asbestos testing jobs.

Conclusion

Testing a wall for asbestos is a necessary step in ensuring your home is safe for you and your family. While you can test for asbestos yourself, it's always best to hire a professional asbestos testing company for a safer and more accurate result.

If you're looking for an asbestos testing company in Sussex, call Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex at 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk to learn more about our asbestos testing services.