MOLD AND ASBESTOS, BOTH TROUBLESOME AND DAMAGING TO THE HEALTH OF THOSE EXPOSED – BUT WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? WHICH IS WORSE? WHICH IS MORE COMMON?
Below, we’ve outlined some key differences and facts to better answer your questions:
Mold, a living microorganism that’s neither plant nor animal classification in accordance with scientific standards – but rather a fungi. Many types of mold can be found throughout the environment, both outdoors and indoors. While natural to be found outdoors, it is when mold travels indoors that can prove hazardous to your health. Mold comes in a variety of colors – brown, orange, green, white, black – and can grow on surfaces such as drywall, wood products, wallpapers, under carpets, or in air ducts.
This was a product commonly used in the construction industry since the late 1800s for strengthening cement, plastics, insulation, roofing, fireproofing and sound absorption in ceiling and floor tiles, paints, coatings and adhesives. When asbestos begins to break down and deteriorate, ‘dust like’ particles begin floating through the air.
Health Risks
Mold exposure can lead to several health-related problems from allergies and asthma to respiratory infections and skin rashes. In some cases, mold exposure can even be fatal. Asbestos can cause more intense health effects, having been classified as a known human carcinogen by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, EPA, and International Agency for Research on Cancer. Most commonly, mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Which is more common?
Although banned in the United States in 1978, homes that were build as late as 1989 may still contain asbestos due to the remaining stockpiles of materials. Many homes and buildings may still contain asbestos and should be tested by a competent laboratory to be certain. Since mold can grow and thrive on a variety of materials in various environments, mold will often be a culprit of concern.
IF YOU FEEL LIKE YOU HAVE MOLD OR ASBESTOS IN YOUR OFFICE OR HOME – IT’S IMPORTANT TO CONTACT A PROFESSIONAL TO TEST THE AREA.
Brooks Remediation has the specialized equipment and expertise to protect you and the environment from the hazards of asbestos. With fully trained and certified employees, state-of-the-art equipment and advanced cleanup systems, we are able to help you meet your legal, health, and safety requirements.
For answers to your questions or to enlist our services call Brooks Remediation at 800-663-2854.