Cancer Center | Green Construction Contractor

Healthy Green Alternatives Push Asbestos Out of the Home

November 20th, 2011 — Green Construction, Guest Blogger

Today's article is written by Joe Lederman, an Awareness Coordinator at the Mesothelioma Cancer Center.

When purchasing or remodeling a home or building, there are many variables to consider. Homes which were built prior to 1980 have a strong likelihood of containing asbestos materials.

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that gained popularity in many industrial applications throughout the 20^th century. Used as forms of insulation, piping, roofing and flooring, asbestos' qualities as flame and heat resistant, made it an ideal choice.

asbestos_house_diagram

Potential home buyers or those seeking to remodel older homes should be aware that asbestos exposure can cause many health concerns. With a steady progression of green sustainable methods of building and technology, there are many different ways to make sure your property is free of this corrosive material.

Although not all asbestos poses harm when left alone, damaged or broken down asbestos can lead to the development of malignant mesothelioma, a rare form of asbestos lung cancer. Recent studies indicate that over 2,000 to 3,000 cases are diagnosed every year in the United States. With no mesothelioma cure, workers and real estate's-man all over the world are now receiving the proper indications and information towards the risks they face.

If asbestos is suspected in the home, the best advice is to leave it un-disturbed as this can make its fibers go airborne. A professional home inspector can determine the best course of action. If removal is necessary, a licensed abatement contractor who is licensed in handling dangerous materials will perform the removal. The Environmental Information Association has further information in regards to the removal, inspection of asbestos and green sustainable methods of construction.

The implementation of eco-friendly products can reduce annual energy costs in the household by 25 %. Many cities in the United States have begun adapting to the green paradigm in hopes of instilling environmentally sustainable building products that achieve a healthy home. Green alternatives to asbestos include the use of lcynene foam, cotton fiber and cellulose. Cotton fiber is made from recycled batted material and treated to be fireproof. A water based spray polyurethane foam, lcynene features no toxic components.

Waste is also decreasing in landfills that used to be eerily contaminated because of these recycled building materials. As education and technology of green sustainable practices increase, the numbers will continue to rise. Living in a world where environmental sustainability is a vital concern to the future of mankind, it is important to take note of the consequences of improper building materials and environmental degradation. These asbestos alternatives allow for a healthy, safe home, free of health damaging materials.

Originally posted 2009-02-18 09:36:05. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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