Q&A Session with Top Holly Springs Realtor from Team Anderson Realty about Asbestos

Asbestos is defined as a heat-resistant fibrous silicate mineral that can be woven into fabrics, and it is used in fire-resistant and insulation materials such as brake linings. Because of its insulation and flexible properties, many homes used it to insulate piping, vinyl tiles, ceiling tiles, siding and various other things. One cannot merely look at something and “know” it has asbestos, but to be sure and safe, anything suspicious should be tested, especially prior to renovations/construction. Asbestos must be professionally mitigated and disposed of by an expert. The cost to test and potentially mitigate varies largely on where the asbestos is located and the amount of product that must be removed.

Below are some various facts found online, summarized with questions most people have about the product.

What is the cost of asbestos testing

An initial asbestos inspection costs $400 to $800, on average. A follow-up inspection after the project is removed adds $200 to $400, on average. For lab work, a sample analysis averages $25 to $75. Asbestos removal costs vary depending on the extent of the work to be done.

Asbestos Removal Cost (approximate):

The average cost for asbestos removal is $20 to $65 per square foot with most homeowners spending between $1,212 and $2,821. Complete whole-home abatement for siding, tile, insulation, ceilings, attic, roof, and pipes can run anywhere from $15,000 to $48,000.

Minimum Cost: $400

National Average Cost: $2,016

Average Range: $1,212 to $2,821

Maximum Cost: $30,000

Do all old houses have asbestos

Many homes built before 1980 contain asbestos in old floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roof shingles and flashing, siding, insulation (around boilers, ducts, pipes, sheeting, fireplaces), pipe cement, and joint compound used on seams between pieces of sheetrock. Some newer houses may also contain asbestos.

Is asbestos testing required

Yes. Even if your building was constructed after 1980, you still need to test for Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACM’s) before starting renovations because all buildings (except for residential structures with four or fewer dwelling units) are subject to the EPA’s Asbestos NESHAP Standard.

How long does asbestos stay in the air if disturbed

Asbestos fibers are very light. Because they are so light, and because of their shape, they can float in the air for long periods of time. It can take 48 – 72 hours for asbestos fibers to fall in a still room. In a room with air currents, these fibers may stay in the air much longer.

When was asbestos banned in residential construction

Houses built between 1930 and 1950 may have asbestos as insulation. Asbestos may be present in textured paint and in patching compounds used on wall and ceiling joints. Their use was banned in 1977. Artificial ashes and embers sold for use in gas-fired fireplaces may contain asbestos.

Which body organ is damaged most by asbestos

Lungs. The most common way for asbestos to enter the human body is by inhalation. The lungs take the biggest hit. You could contract, Asbestosis, which is a severe scarring of the lungs or Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that attacks the protective membrane around your lungs, abdominal organs, and heart.

If you think that your home could contain asbestos, or if you are wanting to buy a home that raises a concern for you, call Team Anderson Realty at 919-610-5126, and we would be more than happy to walk you through your options.