Asbestos is a very dangerous substance when it's inhaled; breathing in its fibers is linked to a number of respiratory problems, including certain forms of lung cancer. This is why many homeowners are typically concerned with asbestos removal in their home and may have some questions about the substance and its removal. Note a few of these questions here.
1. If mold is found in a home, does this mean there is also asbestos?
Asbestos and mold removal services are often offered by the same company because both these substances are typically removed with similar procedures, equipment, and the like. However, it's good to note that mold and asbestos are two entirely different substances. Mold is the result of moisture and humidity that gets trapped behind walls and which then encourages mold growth along the building materials of your home. Asbestos is a substance that is added to building materials such as insulation, joint compound, certain adhesives, and the like.
Having mold in the home means that there is a moisture or humidity problem that needs addressing, but it doesn't necessarily mean that materials containing asbestos are also in the home. By the same token, finding asbestos in your home doesn't necessarily mean that your home will be more prone to mold growth. Because these substances have two entirely different origins, they are not related in how or why they may be found in the home.
2. Can a contractor who says my home has asbestos without testing it be trusted?
The only way to know for certain if a substance is asbestos is to have it tested in a lab. However, this doesn't mean that a contractor who says that he or she suspects your home has asbestos is necessarily misleading you. Remember that asbestos disposal contractors will typically have years of experience in dealing with asbestos fibers and materials that contain asbestos, so they will often be very skilled at knowing when something looks suspiciously like it contains asbestos.
Contractors may also be well-versed in knowing what products were made with asbestos and with the years that asbestos was commonly used as an insulating material, so they can note if your home is a particular age or was constructed with certain materials that likely contain asbestos. You are always free to have substances sent to a lab for testing, but a contractor who is familiar with asbestos may be offering a very expert opinion on what's in your home as well.
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