Michigan Homeowners Seeking Green Alternatives over AsbestosUsed in many construction applications for the greater part of the 20th century, asbestos is a fibrous mineral that possesses many intrinsic traits. In most situations, asbestos appears in roof shingles, dry wall, attic insulation, popcorn ceilings, joint compounds and electrical wires. It’s flame resistant and durable qualities made it an ideal choice for many industries.
Potential Michigan home buyers or those seeking to remodel an older home should be aware that homes built before 1980 may still contain asbestos materials. This is not to make you frightened because asbestos exposure is easily preventable by taking simple precautions. There are now many eco-sustainable options that replace the need for asbestos.
Although asbestos exposure does not always lead a related illness, long term inhalation of its fibers can cause a rare but severe ailment known as
pleural mesothelioma . Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 new mesothelioma cases are reported every year in the United States alone. Manufacturers were aware of asbestos’s toxic qualities, but repressed this evidence for financial gain. The amount of asbestos-related incidents and fatalities has lead to
mesothelioma lawyers fighting for victim rights. Thousands of workers, citizens and military personnel were wrongfully exposed as a result of the asbestos scandal.
According to the experts, the general rule of thumb is if the asbestos is in good shape, it's posing no apparent risk. If it's in bad shape, it could be a problem. In many situations, the best action in dealing with asbestos is no action at all. However, if an inspector deems removal necessary, it must be performed by a licensed abatement contractor who is trained in handling asbestos materials. They must wear protective equipment such as masks and gloves to avoid any potential exposure.
Recently, congress passed an economic stimulus package that promotes energy efficiency for home and business owners.
The American Recover and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 includes incentives for upgrading to more eco-friendly/sustainable methods of energy and insulation. The move to a greener lifestyle will build on the change to healthier methods of building products, home remodeling and renovation. Recycled building materials that are viable options to asbestos include: cellulose, cotton fiber and lcynene foam. These environmentally sustainable products can also reduce annual energy costs by 25 to 35 percent.
Michigan has taken actions
to ensure safety and health is a top priority in this great state. Non-profit organizations such as Michigan GREEN, consists of energy consultants and companies who have joined forces with schools, government agencies and conscious individuals to promote the cause of renewable and green efficiency throughout the U.S.