Asbestos is a naturally occurring silicate mineral composed of microscopic, heat-resistant fibers. Asbestos is commonly found in building materials and is considered a low health risk when it is stable. Asbestos becomes problematic when the fibers are disturbed and become airborne.
When planning for a renovation or construction project in your home or business getting an asbestos test is strongly encouraged. Earthwatch Environmental Services offers comprehensive asbestos testing and remediation throughout New York.
There are six types of asbestos, but the most common form of asbestos is chrysotile, also known as “white asbestos”. In New York, as well as most of the United States, chrysotile is commonly found in building materials and accounts for approximately 90% of commercial-use asbestos worldwide.
The other two types of asbestos commonly found in building materials are crocidolite, also known as ‘blue asbestos, and amosite, commonly referred to as ‘brown asbestos.
Once asbestos fibers have been disturbed, the fibers can become airborne and, once inhaled, can cause catastrophic health consequences. Approximately 12,000 to 15,000 US citizens die directly from the asbestos-related disease each year.
Asbestos can be found in both residential and commercial buildings throughout New Jersey and New York. There are approximately 3,000 types of commercial and building products that contain asbestos. In homes built before 1978, asbestos is most commonly found as thermal insulation on boilers and pipes.
Other areas that commonly contain asbestos are:
The only way to ensure your home or building is safe from the harmful effects of asbestos is by hiring an EPA-certified asbestos testing and evaluation firm to test.
The experts at Earthwatch Environmental Services make asbestos testing easy and affordable. Our certified technicians offer full-service testing for residential and commercial properties. Ideally, testing for asbestos should occur under the following conditions:
While these are the most common reasons to test for asbestos, testing should be conducted whenever there is uncertainty about materials in your home.