Renovation of Old Homes Require Asbestos Removal and Disposal

Asbestos used to be considered a safe, resilient building material here in Australia until it was linked to health problems such as mesothelioma. Since the 1980s, it has not been included in new building projects but can still be found in old homes and other structures. If your present home has been built or renovated prior to about 1987, there is a good chance that it contains some amount of asbestos. When this is the case, you will need to remove it before you can renovate your house safely. It requires professional techniques and knowledge to accomplish the removal and disposal of this substance correctly, safely, and legally.

Which Houses Are at Risk for Asbestos?

Any homes built in Australia between 1954 and the late 1980s probably include asbestos in some form. However, asbestos was not banned in building materials here until December 31, 2003, so it is advisable to check for asbestos in any home built or renovated prior to this date just in case.

Examples of the House Elements That May Contain Asbestos

• Chimney flues
• Corrugated, patterned or flat roof and wall sheeting
• Under the eaves
• Electrical meter boards
• Simulated weatherboard or brick cladding
• Insulation
• Asbestos cement sheeting for floors, ceiling or walls

How to Identify Asbestos

Since it is difficult to know which materials contain asbestos just by looking at them, the best way to identify this substance is by testing the suspected materials. Consult with the National Association of Testing Authorities or the NATA to learn where the closest laboratory is for this purpose to your location. Click here to refer to its website for all its current contact information.

Do Current Construction Materials Contain Asbestos?

The answer to this question is an emphatic ‘no’ since the authorities did outlaw the use of asbestos in any building material on December 31, 2003, as we previously mentioned. Materials in use today are much safer.

Why Asbestos Removal and Disposal Is a Job for Professionals

Even though undisturbed asbestos may not pose a health hazard, it is easy to break it up during removal to release its particles into the air. Therefore, it is crucial to remove it in the proper way to prevent any dangerous exposure to it. Unless you are an expert in the removal and disposal of this substance, you should rely on the professionals to perform both actions as part of your renovation project.

For further guidance on why the renovation of old homes requires asbestos removal and disposal, consult with Simcat Demolitions. Along with our demolition and other services, we specialise in the removal and disposal of asbestos in compliance with all EPA and WorkSafe standards.

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