House fires are stressful enough without worrying about hidden dangers like asbestos. If your home was built before 1980, there’s a chance asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) could be present. Fires can make these materials even more hazardous by damaging their structure and releasing asbestos fibers into the air.
Asbestos is infamous for its damaging effects on the respiratory system, with cumulative exposure leading to mesothelioma and other lung cancers.
The problem? Asbestos fibers are invisible and odorless, so you won’t even know they’re there. That’s why understanding how asbestos reacts to fire and knowing what to do afterward is essential for keeping you and your family safe. Let’s dive into what you need to know, then discuss asbestos abatement services to secure your home or business.
Is Asbestos Flammable?
Asbestos was popular once upon a time in building materials for its fire resistance. However, you might be wondering: is asbestos actually fireproof? The short answer is – kind of.
Asbestos is a flame-retardant mineral, which is one of the reasons it was so widely used in the past. It’s nonflammable, noncombustible and has a melting point of around 1,600 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore – no, asbestos isn’t entirely fireproof, but it’s very hardy. Its fire-resistant properties made it ideal for insulation, roofing materials, and other construction applications.
However, asbestos’s fireproof nature doesn’t make it safe. During a fire, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can be compromised as the material burns away – but the asbestos doesn’t, releasing its microscopic fibers into the air. These fibers pose a severe health risk, especially if inhaled.
What Happens to Asbestos-Containing Materials After a Fire?
When a fire damages the structural integrity of ACMs, it exposes asbestos fibers, making them airborne. Once airborne, these fibers are almost impossible to detect without specialized equipment. Asbestos fibers can remain airborne for 48-72 hours as well.
The danger lies in their microscopic size and durability. Asbestos fibers can linger in the air and settle on surfaces long after a fire, creating ongoing exposure risks. Even a small disturbance, like cleaning debris, can release more fibers, increasing the potential for harm. This is why it’s generally recommended to leave asbestos abatement to the professionals with complete protective equipment.
Some scenarios where ACMs can be exposed by a fire include:
- Falling ceiling tiles, which may shatter on impact or burn away,
- House collapses, where the asbestos across the house may be unearthed,
- Burning paint, especially textured paint like popcorn ceilings.
How to Reduce Asbestos Risk After a Fire
When dealing with asbestos exposure risks, it’s essential to take a cautious and informed approach. If you fear your home or business contained asbestos, here’s how to protect yourself and others after a fire:
Avoid Contaminated Areas
If your home has experienced fire damage, assume that asbestos-containing materials might have been affected. Stay out of damaged areas until they are inspected by professionals. Disturbing debris could release dangerous fibers into the air.
Wear Protective Clothing
If entering the property is unavoidable, wear disposable protective clothing, including a respirator designed to filter asbestos particles. However, personal precautions are not a substitute for professional handling.
Enlist Professional Asbestos Abatement
The most critical step is hiring licensed asbestos abatement specialists. These professionals have the training, tools, and protective equipment needed to safely remove asbestos-contaminated materials and ensure your property is safe for occupancy.
Contact Our Expert Abatement Technicians Today
Facing fire damage and potential asbestos exposure can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Our experienced abatement team at Mile High Environmental Services specializes in safely addressing asbestos risks and restoring peace of mind.
Reach out today to schedule an assessment. Let us take care of the hazardous materials so you can focus on rebuilding your home and your life.
