Asbestos insulation, although not in use these days, is a material that has properties such as being fireproof, resistant to chemical wear and tear and also known for its good thermal and electrical insulation properties.

Where was asbestos insulation used?

Boiler, furnace and pipe insulation consisted of asbestos insulation. This material was also in use in heating duct wrappings and other roofing materials and acoustic ceilings. In homes, asbestos is mostly in the form of corrugated cardboard like material coated with cloth or canvas and bound to ducts or pipes with metal straps.

Why asbestos is no longer used as insulation?

Asbestos is known to release very small fibers into the air, which have been known to cause fatal diseases like cancer. This is probably the reason why asbestos exposure has been a serious issue affecting the health of many people. The inhalation of asbestos causes harm to the tissues of the lungs and hence is highly avoidable. Even workers exposed to asbestos for a fairly long time have been diagnosed with such health problems.

Asbestos insulation - a few precautionary measures

Asbestos insulation must be carried out with caution and must be handled by experts or trained professionals who are also able to judge the extent of danger posed by material to the members of the building or house. The best precautionary measure is to do away with asbestos insulation completely and use other non-toxic and efficient materials for home insulation. Expert advice on use and removal of asbestos insulation can be found with any insulation contractor or company that provides insulation engineers or undertakes such jobs.

Other insulation materials in use

Many insulation materials are used instead of asbestos insulation. Home insulation techniques use materials such as fiberglass, loose-fill, batt, blankets, spray foam and many such non-toxic materials. Best handled by professionals, home insulation projects are definitely not intended to be do-it-yourself kind of projects. It is also important to remember that if the existing insulation is made of asbestos, expert insulation contractors may be able to guide the homeowner on complete removal, enclosure or encapsulation of the existing insulation.

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