You finally managed to save enough money to renovate the basement! What if your contractor asks you if there is asbestos in the house? You probably think that asbestos can only be found in old houses built before the 1950s and 1960s...
It is now prohibited to use asbestos, but many houses and buildings still contain it. That is why we must be cautious when undertaking renovations. If the asbestos is in good condition and left intact, there's no need to worry. If it is sealed behind walls or under floors or if it is insulated in the attic, it should remain in its place. However, if you disturb asbestos during the renovations, it can pose a significant risk to your health and that of your family. Health Canada recommends that you do not breathe asbestos fibres since it can cause cancer and other diseases.
Although the use of asbestos has diminished since the 1970s, it was still chosen in 1990s to insulate houses against cold, noise and fire. Asbestos was also found in concrete, plaster, house siding, floor and ceiling slabs, and boilers and heating systems.
Before undertaking any renovation, repair or demolition work, consult a professional. Ensure to detect the presence of asbestos to reduce your risk of exposure. If asbestos is present, hire a qualified specialist to remove it before the work begins. Avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials. Do not remove any asbestos that may be in the house yourself - ask a professional instead.