Maryland Green Power Co

Asbestos Tips and Going Green in the Home

Located in the Mid Atlantic part of the United States, Maryland is known for its close proximity to Virginia, District of Columbia, Pennsylvania and Delaware. With a rich history, home for life science research, beautiful scenery and several noted universities, it is easy to see why many call the state their home.

Energy and sustainability fuel many facets of live in the state. A catalyst for homes, industries, schools, universities and business, the incredible diversity of enterprises is driven by a common bound to move to a green lifestyle. While we all use energy to power us through our daily lives, many people take renewable and sustainable methods for granted.

An older prominent building material that has plagued homeowners is asbestos. Prominently used as insulation, piping, roofing and flooring, its flame resistant and durable qualities once made it a clear choice for manufacturers. The chance for asbestos in homes built before 1980 still remains even today.

Moving toward newer green building and sustainable approaches to various industries, those searching to remodel or purchase new homes should take the precautions necessary to rid any signs of asbestos.

Asbestos that is left un-disturbed and is in good condition almost always will not be cause for alarm. When it becomes damaged and its fibers become airborne, where significant worries arise. Many healthy green options exist that make the use of asbestos completely obsolete.

The frequent inhalation of asbestos can cause a rare, but severe lung ailment known as malignant mesothelioma. Mesothelioma treatment has varied effects on victims because current research indicates it can take up to 20 to 50 years for this illness to develop. Due to the fact many mesothelioma symptoms are similar to less serious ailments, mesothelioma diagnosis is one of the more difficult tasks physicians encounter.

Tips and GREEN Alternatives
If you believe asbestos is located in your home, sometimes the best action is no action at all. Experts will advise to leave it un-disturbed, as this can cause its fibers to be broken down and released into the air. If you are embarking on a remodeling project, a general contractor will usually be responsible for providing materials, equipment and labor for a remodeling project.

Prior to the renovation, they should be aware if any hazardous materials are present. If removal is necessary, it must be performed by a licensed abatement contractor who is trained and licensed to deal with hazardous materials.

Recently, congress passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act into law. Included in this act were 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. Some of the measures that are eligible for tax credits include added insulation to walls, ceilings, or other part of the building envelope that meets the 2009 IECC specifications, sealing cracks in the building shell and ducts to reduce heat loss. Storm doors paired with U-factored rated wood doors are also eligible.

Implementing green methods of building can have positive environmental, health and economic benefits, such as: enhancement of air quality, conservation of natural resources, energy sustainability, and reduction in energy costs and improvement of pulmonary and cardiac health.

Replacing the asbestos with an alternative insulation material like cotton fiber, lycnene foam or cellulose is more energy efficient and reduces the risk of asbestos exposure. Many locations throughout the United States are swiftly changing their construction practices to suit the environment and the health of human beings.

Author:

Joe Lederman

Mesothelioma Center

joe @ asbestos.com