Asbestos could be anywhere in your home, but one place many people never think about, is the basement. Basements are often overlooked when it comes to maintenance, inspections, and other home fixes. Basements are one of the many places asbestos could be in your home. Flooring, tiles, insulation, and adhesives all have been known to contain the mineral. Due to it’s fibrous properties this substance isn’t harmful unless it is disturbed. Once it breaks down from wear and tear or a remodel, small particles of it can travel throughout your home.
Before you begin any remodeling projects, you should have a certified specialist check for this hazardous substance. If your basement is older, it could already be a danger to you and your family. It is very important that you have the area tested before beginning any projects. Below are some ways that asbestos- containing materials could break:

  • Cutting or Sawing
  • Sweeping
  • Dust
  • Strip Waxing
  • Scraping
  • Removed Improperly
  • General Wear and Tear

Most people who have asbestos in their basements never know.  Materials containing traces can be present in basement for decades with no one knowing. Your basement isn’t the first place you would assume contained asbestos, but it is very likely that it does. Once asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they will travel through the home exposing everyone in its path. It is very important to have a certified specialist check your home if it is older or before you do any projects. A simple test completed by a professional could save the lives of many people. Asbestos is harmful and can cause cancer, severe respiratory problems, and even death. Before you start any projects, purchase, or sell a home, have it checked. If they do discover asbestos in the basement they will assess the situations and advise the homeowner on the safest and most effective options for addressing the situation.