Deciding to build a granny flat is simple, designing and building the extension can be a lot harder. You'll have a lot of questions to answer along the way. Can you use a general contractor or is is better to use one who has built a lot of granny flats before? Is a template design better than a customised one? Should you let the person who'll live in the flat have a say in what it looks like? Luckily, I'm here to help. My name is Maria. We moved my Mum into a purpose-built granny flat last year, so I've had to answer all these questions and more. I thought it'd be useful for other people to see how we managed the process, so here we are — get reading!
Five Lesser-Known Areas in Residential Buildings Where Asbestos Might Be Lurking
Despite asbestos being a well-known health risk, it remains an unspoken threat in many Australian homes. Beyond the expected locations such as insulation, roofing or tiles, asbestos might be secretly residing in other areas. Hence, the need for a skilled residential asbestos removalist becomes crucial. Here are five lesser-known yet significant asbestos hideouts.
1. Window Glazing And Caulking
Window glazing and caulking, often overlooked, can house asbestos. In houses built before the 1980s, these areas utilised asbestos for its durability and fire resistance. If the glazing deteriorates, it could potentially release asbestos fibres into the environment, indicating an urgent need for a residential asbestos removalist.
2. Textured Paint And Patching Compounds
Aesthetically pleasing textured paints and patching compounds used on wall and ceiling joints are another less recognised source of asbestos. manufacturers during the mid to late 20th century often incorporated asbestos into these products for its ability to create a distinct texture while also providing strength and durability. As these materials age, they might start to crack or peel off, making asbestos fibres airborne and posing a health hazard to residents, making the intervention of a professional residential asbestos removalist vital.
3. HVAC Ductwork And Seals
HVAC systems are another potential asbestos hideout. Hidden from the daily life of homeowners, the ductwork and seals of these systems can contain asbestos. Asbestos was routinely used for its heat-resistant properties in the seals of older ductwork systems. The insulation wrap around the HVAC ductwork could be another clandestine asbestos carrier.
4. Electrical Wiring
Asbestos could lurk in places as unexpected as electrical wiring. In older buildings, it was used as insulation around electrical wires due to its non-conductive properties. Furthermore, asbestos was used in cloth wiring in many homes built pre-1980s. Disturbed or degraded wiring could release asbestos fibres.
5. Vinyl Flooring
Lastly, asbestos might be hiding right under your feet—in vinyl flooring. In older homes, the backing or adhesive used to secure vinyl tiles may contain asbestos. Damaged or worn tiles can potentially release hazardous asbestos fibres into your home.
Identifying these lesser-known hideouts of asbestos is essential to safeguarding your home. If you suspect any asbestos presence, avoid removal yourself. Instead, engage the services of a professional residential asbestos removalist. This ensures the safety of your household from this concealed hazard. Through the expert help of a residential or commercial asbestos contractor, you can confidently protect your home and loved ones.
For more information, contact a company such as Lightning Asbestos and Demolition Services.