Green Modifications Lead to Reduction of Asbestos Exposure in Homes

With a growing amount of resources devoted to eco-sustainable technologies, many homeowners are removing asbestos and replacing the substance with environmentally friendly alternatives.

On February 17, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act into law. This package has given homeowners tax incentives to implement the use of environmentally sustainable forms of insulation as replacements for asbestos.

Included in the act are extensions to the tax incentives placed for energy efficiency in 2005, as well as new credits for homeowners who remodel or build using eco-sustainable methods. Existing homes are eligible for a series of efficiency measures that pertain to a home’s insulation, windows and sealing.

The stimulus package is having a direct impact in reducing the presence of asbestos and other corrosive materials in the home. Homeowners are adapting to the new “green” standard by updating older homes, making residences safer and more environmentally friendly.

Some of the measures that are eligible for tax credits include adding insulation to walls and ceilings and sealing cracks and ducts to reduce heat loss. Storm doors paired with wind and heat resistant wood doors are also eligible.

Replacing asbestos with an alternative insulation material such as cotton fiber, lycnene foam or cellulose will provide energy efficiency and will reduce the risk of asbestos exposure.

While there is no longer a need for products used in construction to contain asbestos, more than 3,000 work and home-based materials still contain this toxin.

Asbestos was highly regarded throughout the 20th century as an ideal building and construction material. The mineral’s natural resistance to fire and heat and its extreme durability made it ideal for use in many industries. Asbestos typically appeared in ceiling insulation, piping, siding, roof shingles and flooring.

Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of a rare cancer known as mesothelioma. Since many mesothelioma symptoms are similar to less serious ailments, diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult.

Implementing green methods when constructing a building can have positive environmental, health and economic benefits including energy sustainability, increased property value, enhanced air quality, improved pulmonary health and the conservation of natural resources.

Additional information about asbestos exposure and mesothelioma may be found through the Mesothelioma Cancer Center.

This entry was posted on Friday, April 17th, 2009 at 3:17 pm and is filed under Asbestos Exposure, Asbestos Legislation, Jobsite Exposure, Mesothelioma. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS feed. Responses are currently closed, but you trackback from your own site.