Was your garage built before 1999? If so, it’s possible that it could have been constructed with materials that contain asbestos. Asbestos had a wide range of applications, but it was most commonly used as insulation and wall cladding for the wall and roof construction of sheds and garages. If you suspect that your garage has asbestos, here’s what you should do.
Is Your Garage A Threat?
Typically, the garage is used every day. When you leave in the morning and when you come home, you and your family could potentially be exposed to the harmful substance that causes severe terminal illnesses. However, you might be in luck.
When asbestos hasn’t been damaged, it can be more of a nuisance than a threat. If you’re aware of asbestos in your garage, but it’s still intact, you don’t need to be alarmed just yet. However, you should prepare to enlist the services of a professional asbestos removal company. However, when the asbestos has been damaged – even with just a crack – you and your family are at risk of exposure to the microscopic, airborne fibres.
What Are The Steps You Should Take?
If you suspect asbestos in your garage, you’ll want to find out as soon as possible. Because it’s such a harmful substance, it isn’t something that can be forgotten or avoided for a few months.
The first step is to get your garage inspected. There are many other substances which look like asbestos but are harmless, so you’ll want to make sure that you aren’t worrying about anything unnecessarily. Fibreglass could be mistaken for asbestos but poses no threat. The asbestos insulation spray can look similar to white cotton wool, so it’s important not to get confused. Once it’s been inspected, you’ll know which steps to take further. The inspector will be able to recommend which route to take if asbestos has been found; however, it will need to be removed from your garage immediately.
Remember, asbestos is hazardous, so it shouldn’t be taken lightly if you find it in your garage. You should also remember that removing it yourself isn’t a recommended course of action. Leave it to the professionals, who are experienced and have the necessary qualifications and licensing to dispose of it responsibly. Asbestos can be found anywhere, so get your garage inspected by JP Franklin Asbestos – we’re New Zealand’s asbestos garage removal specialists.
