Asbestos was a popular building material in Nanaimo and Victoria homes for many years. Asbestos was used in a wide range of manufactured products largely because of its heat resistant properties. Before 1990, asbestos was mainly used for insulating buildings and homes against cold weather and noise, and for fireproofing.
Asbestos is a friable material which means that when it is dry, it can be crumbled releasing small fibres into the air as a toxic dust. Inhaling asbestos is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all cost!
The human health effects from long-term asbestos exposure are well documented, including asbestosis and changes in the lining of the lungs (pleural abnormalities). All forms of asbestos have been shown to cause lung cancer and mesothelioma.
“You can reduce your risk of exposure by hiring Hazpro Environmental to test for asbestos before doing any:
- renovations or remodelling
- demolitions
- additions
So if you live in the Nanaimo or Victoria area where might you find asbestos in your home? We’ve compiled an easy-to-follow list to help you identify asbestos in your and any potential risks.
Removing asbestos from your home is a dangerous process and should only be attempted by a professional. If you feel like you and your family may be at risk call us for a proper inspection.
Here’s where you’re most likely to find asbestos in your home:
| Location | Materials |
| Bathroom, toilet and laundry | Asbestos cement sheeting used in walls, ceilings and floors |
| Hot water pipes | |
| Lagging on hot water pipes | |
| Living areas | Insulation in wood heaters |
| Asbestos cement sheeting beneath heater hearths | |
| Kitchen | Vinyl floor tiles |
| Backing to cushion vinyl flooring | |
| Hot water pipes | |
| Exterior | Flat, patterned and corrugated wall and roof sheeting |
| Imitation brick cladding | |
| Lining under eaves | |
| Backyard | Garden sheds |
| Garages and carports | |
For more information about identifying asbestos or vermiculite, removal, or other hazardous materials in your Nanaimo or Victoria area home, please contact the team at Hazpro Environmental.
