DIY shows don’t mention the risk of mesothelioma or other illnesses in their how-to projects

Dec 23, 2009

Do it yourself (DIY) home renovation shows are quite popular in North America. Home renovation is a multi-billion dollar industry, and homeowners are eager to keep their costs down by doing much of the work themselves before selling or after buying a home.

But what the DIY shows don’t talk about is the danger of doing even small home improvements on your own if your home was built before 1980. Prior to 1980, asbestos was used in a variety of construction materials. The toxic substance is dangerous when inhaled, as it can cause serious respiratory illnesses like asbestosis, or even various forms of cancer like mesothelioma. Something as simple as sanding your walls before painting or knocking out part of a wall could release asbestos dust into the air, putting you and your family at risk of developing some of these asbestos-related illnesses. In addition to asbestos, homes built before 1980 could also contain other hazardous substances, like lead paint, mold, radon, PCBs and mercury thermostats.

If your home was built before 1980, it’s a good idea to have it inspected for hazardous materials before doing any sort of demolition or renovation projects. Asbestos can be found in a variety of places around the house, including: vermiculite attic and wall insulation, drywall taping compounds, furnace tape, ceiling texture, plaster skim coats, bathroom grout, vinyl floor tiles, vinyl sheet flooring paper backing, exterior asbestos stone cladding, pipe insulation, roof shingles, roof felts and electrical insulators. Asbestos-containing materials should be removed by certified asbestos abatement contractors. Hiring professionals may not be cheap, but the cost of not using them is far higher for your health and possibly your home’s value.

For the full story, go to Examiner.

Latest News Stories