Asbestos has been used in building materials, textiles, and even household products for decades. However, it has been found to be a hazardous material due to its ability to cause multiple types of cancer. Mesothelioma, for example, is a rare and aggressive cancer that mainly affects the lining of the lungs and chest wall. This cancer has no cure and can be caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Asbestos is also linked to other cancers, including lung cancer and ovarian cancer, making it imperative to remove asbestos in any building before it becomes a danger to one’s health.
Asbestos cleanup can be dangerous and expensive, but there are new innovative and safer ways to remove asbestos that will eliminate the danger and lower the cost.
The traditional way of removing asbestos mastic is physical removal by sanding, blasting, cutting, scraping, or dissolving the material containing asbestos and carefully disposing of it. This method can be messy, time-consuming, and very dangerous. Asbestos fibers can be released into the air, making anyone in contact with asbestos fibers exposed to these toxic fibers. However, there are safer ways to remove asbestos from old buildings where asbestos was extensively used during construction.
One safer method is chemical encapsulation. With this method, a liquid is sprayed or rolled onto the asbestos, encapsulating it in a protective coating, which renders it harmless. The encapsulation process can be cost-effective as it can be applied over old asbestos surfaces without needing to remove it. Encap
sulation will also extend the life of the asbestos-containing material and prevent the release of hazardous fibers. However, this method can only be done by professionals and for removal of friable asbestos. Black adhesive mastics are non-friable and so this method cannot be used.
When dealing with asbestos removal, it is crucial to consult with professionals who have expertise and training in the removal process. Skilled professionals will carefully inspect your home or workspace and determine if there is asbestos present. They will also offer an estimate on the cost and preventive measures that can be put in place during the removal process to ensure safety is achieved, or direct you in your application of a latex-bridging encapsulant like PerfectPrimer.
It is essential to take the necessary steps to protect oneself from asbestos exposure. Reducing the risk of exposure begins with having one’s home or workspace professionally inspected for asbestos. You can use the same safe PerfectPrimer method of sealing black mastic of a fraction of the cost.. This ensures safety and avoids the spread of hazardous particles.
