How to Tell the Difference Between Cellulose and Asbestos Insulation?
Millennial homeowners are often influenced by the new ongoing trends of DIY home renovations and upgrades on TikTok and Instagram. But before you start any type of renovation, it is very important to know what materials were used to build your home, particularly the ceiling. We want to emphasize the use of asbestos insulation and cellulose insulation in homes. Both these insulation types are often mistaken for each other, which can lead to serious health risks.
Let's clarify the potential risks. When directly exposed to humans, asbestos is known to pose serious health risks. In contrast, cellulose insulation is considered safe. However, if homeowners mistakenly identify asbestos as cellulose and proceed with their DIY projects, they could unknowingly expose themselves to asbestos and potentially develop Asbestosis, a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers.
Let's Find out a little more about asbestos and cellulose.
What is Asbestos Insulation?
Asbestos is a natural material used in insulation products. It was mainly used to protect homes against temperature fluctuations and potential fire hazards. Due to these properties, asbestos became popular from the 1940s to the 1970s. In the 1980s, the use of asbestos as insulation drastically dropped as it became clearer that there are health-associated risks with the use of asbestos. Besides, many regulations were passed on the use of asbestos during this time.
Asbestos is recognized as a cancer-causing substance. If asbestos is disturbed, its fibers can be released into the air and inhaled. These tiny fibers can get stuck in the body, leading to cancers like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and ovarian cancer.
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What is Cellulose Insulation?
Cellulose insulation became popular in the 20th century when the use of asbestos dropped.
Also, during the 1970s, cellulose insulation grew very popular because it was environmentally friendly and affordable, making it a great alternative to synthetic insulation products. This was all part of the energy conservation movement at the time. Cellulose can not only make a home more energy efficient but also has noise-damping benefits.
Cellulose insulation is mainly composed of recycled paper. It is generally regarded as safe. According to a report by the National Toxicology Program, cellulose particles are unlikely to be inhaled. However, the fire retardants used in cellulose insulation could present health risks.
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The Difference Between Asbestos and Cellulose Insulation
Asbestos comes in many colors, including blue, gray, and white. It often has a shiny, fibrous texture that can be easily crushed or ripped apart. Asbestos insulation might look like loose, fluffy material. Often found in attics, it can resemble cotton.
Cellulose insulation is gray or bluish-gray and looks soft and fluffy. It might resemble loose-filled asbestos but will lack shiny fibers, which is a major difference to look out for. The look of cellulose insulation varies based on the materials used in its production, which often include recycled paper products like cardboard and old newspapers. It can also contain hay, straw, or other plant fibers.
As we mentioned earlier, asbestos poses high health risks, so if you are in doubt, it is better to hire a professional for asbestos testing in Sacramento. The experts will safely collect samples and test them in a lab. Until the results are available, you must put a hold on your DIY projects. Once you are sure about the existence of asbestos and want it removed, you must call professionals for asbestos removal.
Asbestos removal is no joke and must be done with proper safety precautions. A job like this is better left to asbestos abatement contractors. These professionals know local regulations and laws and know how to dispose of asbestos safely.
Worried About Asbestos in Your Home? JM Environmental Can Help
Do not take any chances when testing asbestos insulation or safely removing asbestos from your home. Asbestos can lead to serious health risks, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
JM Environmental specializes in asbestos removal & abatement in Sacramento, CA. Our team follows strict protocols to test, analyze, and safely remove asbestos from your home. We adhere to all legal standards, ensuring a thorough and safe process.
If you are an old homeowner in Sacramento, CA, JM Environmental can help with reliable asbestos removal. Contact us today to schedule a professional asbestos testing Sacramento and keep your home and family safe.
