Enter yWhat Type Of Asbestos Is Found In Beams?
It is common to find asbestos in older properties but you may wonder which type of asbestos is most common in specific segments of the property.
In this case, you are going to wonder about asbestos found in beams around the property.
This article is going to take a deeper look at what type of asbestos is found in beams, what it is all about, and key facts to know about the variant.
What is Chrysotile?
The most common type of asbestos is chrysotile or "white asbestos" and it is often seen being used for construction materials.
Whether it has to do with roofing, walls, and/or beams, this is the type of asbestos that is likely to be found in older properties that had this type of construction material being used regularly. The reason for using this type of asbestos back in the day had to do with a lack of research into the health concerns and the overall benefits that came along with it.
The benefits included increased weather resistance, durability, and/or aesthetic quality. It simply added value to the beams and other property-related components.
Key Facts of Chrysotile
1. Known as White Asbestos
Let's begin by understand its name as "white asbestos" because that is a good way to understand what asbestos is all about visually.
This particular type comes in white and it is one that you are going to see in various construction materials/components.
If you take the time to look at the fibres, you will notice they are a clear white. This is what starts to spread into the air as soon as it is exposed to the environment. If you start to see the beam break down, this is when the problems start to occur and the chrysotile spreads rapidly.
2. Known to Increase Chances of Lung Cancer
Medical researchers have spent a lot of time analysing chrysotile and various other types of asbestos. Due to how common it is in the construction industry, a lot of experts believe it is a troublemaker when it comes to increasing the chances of lung cancer.
The reason has to do with the tiny fibres spreading into the air and then being breathed in.
Due to prolonged exposure, the individual ends up filling their body with these fibres that are not easily eliminated regardless of how young or old you are.
This is what ends up causing the cancerous cells to develop.
3. Still Being Used Worldwide
It's important to note there are several parts of the world where this is still being used as a viable solution. To cover it, companies take the time to use a coating that protects the property from being contaminated in the short-term.
However, the real risk comes down to exposure as the component begins to break down over time. This is where older properties become a serious risk and why experts do not recommend the use of chrysotile.
Final Thoughts
Over the years, more and more property owners are starting to worry about chrysotile in their beams. It is a common concern because it is widespread across the construction industry and has been around for a long time making it a serious problem.
For those who are dealing with this head-on, it is essential to have an inspection done on your beams.
Take a look at their condition and see whether or not additional protection is required. It is better to get out in front of this problem rather than letting it run rampant and spread into the air. This is when the fibres can end up doing quite a bit of damage.