Before the dangers of asbestos were widely known, this material was once widely used to make homes and commercial buildings. Although now many people are aware of the health risks of asbestos fibers, some of the old buildings that use asbestos are still standing. Asbestos is made of microscopic fibers that are invisible to the naked eye. To identify it, look for the manufacturer's label, and consult an expert if in doubt.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Identifying Possible Asbestos Materials
Step 1. Determine the material date
Check the name of the manufacturer and product on the insulator label, then search the internet to see if the product contains asbestos. The date of the building or materials can also indicate the level of asbestos risk. However, the use of asbestos was only banned in the 1980s so that some buildings built at that time still had asbestos materials. If built after 1995, the building will almost certainly not contain asbestos.
Step 2. Look at the joints of the building
On the outside of buildings, asbestos sheets are often joined together using aluminum runners. This runner is held in place by small spikes without a head at the end. On the inside, the asbestos sheet is held in place using plastic or wooden runners in a similar way. This design can be a sign that the structure was built using asbestos material. You can also check the adhesive used to hold the two materials together as they usually also contain asbestos.
Step 3. Analyze the surface pattern
Asbestos material often has a pattern on the surface that looks like small dimples or shallow craters covering the surface. Materials in subsequent years have more refined. Although this method is not 100% effective, if there are dimple patterns on the surface, you already need to be aware of the dangers of asbestos.
Step 4. Check the exterior of the building materials
Asbestos is used to make some of the exterior parts of buildings. Roofs and siding shingles are examples of parts of houses that have used asbestos and are ready to be released into the air if damaged. Asbestos is also incorporated into cement which will be used to make the exterior of the building insulated.
Most old cement board products contain asbestos. This type of material looks like thin fibrous concrete and is often used as siding, corrugated roofing sheets, and soffit materials (the underside of buildings, such as balconies or under roofs)
Step 5. Check the interior panels
Floors, walls, and ceilings were once made with asbestos-containing materials. Notice the greasy look on the floor tiles, which indicates that the material is made of asbestos bonded with asphalt. Vinyl tiles and decorative plaster walls usually contain asbestos.
Blow-in asbestos was often used for roof tiles and ceilings over drywall walls before the dangers were widely known. This type of asbestos appears gray or has pale white fibers
Step 6. Check the finishing device and materials
In addition to common building materials, asbestos is also used in many manufactured products. These materials can be found in home or building systems. Some examples are:
- Insulator
- Air duct system
- Hot air duct (flue)
- Chimney cover
- Fire-resistant materials (doors, cabinets, etc.)
- Roof
- Carpet underlay
- Putty and sealing
- Window putty
- Pipe (looks like several layers of paper wrapped around the pipe)
Step 7. Check the location
Asbestos is a very strong and durable material. This material is waterproof, unlike many other materials. This is why asbestos materials are often used in places such as bathrooms and bathrooms to prevent water damage.
Method 2 of 3: Looking for Identification Marks
Step 1. Identify the fungus
Asbestos is molded into many shapes and sizes to meet various needs. For example, asbestos sheets are used to make walls, and asbestos sheets are made to make roof tiles. Each print has a different location which is sometimes stamped with manufacturer information. This information sometimes tells whether the material contains asbestos or not.
Step 2. Scan the letter code
Once you've identified the print, look for the manufacturer's stamped or printed information. If found, look for codes such as AC (contains asbestos) or NT (does not contain asbestos). Be aware that not all building materials have this information.
Step 3. Find the additional code
Some manufacturers use different codes at various times. If you find a code or mark on an ingredient, try searching. Sometimes you can find the meaning behind the code and determine the asbestos content. On the other hand, information on asbestos content can not be found.
Method 3 of 3: Getting Expert Analysis
Step 1. Consult with someone with experience identifying asbestos
If you are still in doubt, assume the material contains asbestos. If you want to be sure, bring a consultant who is competent in recognizing asbestos. These consultants can be experienced contractors or building inspectors. Try looking for his contact number on the internet.
Step 2. Collect samples
If you are reluctant to use the services of a contractor, or they are also not sure, do a lab test to confirm the content of building materials. Lab tests will determine whether the material contains asbestos or not. Take a little material in the corner and store it in a plastic bag.
Step 3. Send the sample to a verified lab
If domiciled in the United States, take the sample to a NATA-certified laboratory. If so, take a sample there. If you can only ship by mail, follow the guidelines for shipping asbestos. The lab will determine the ingredients and report it to you.
Tips
Removal of asbestos should not be carried out by ordinary people who do not have a license; You must use a licensed expert
Warning
- Make sure you have taken precautions and are wearing rubber gloves, a face mask, and full body clothing.
- Assume the suspected material does contain asbestos and apply appropriate precautions.
