How Risky is White Asbestos?

Posted in Asbestos Removal, on September 23, 2021

Asbestos is a common find in many commercial and residential properties, especially ones built before the 1990s. There are several types of asbestos, divided into two main categories, serpentine and amphibole, and if found, all require asbestos removal services in Toronto. The applications and properties of the different types of asbestos determine where they might be found and the immediate danger it presents. For instance, white asbestos is the most commonly used form of asbestos that you can find around your home or commercial property.

Regardless of the type of asbestos, don't try and identify it yourself — contact Canada's Restoration Services for asbestos testing in Toronto for safe and effective inspections, and if needed, asbestos removal services in Toronto.

Continue reading below to learn more about white asbestos and where you might find it.

What Does White Asbestos Look Like?

White asbestos, or scientifically known as chrysotile asbestos, belongs to the serpentine family. It has white, stringy, durable and flexible fibres, allowing it to be woven or spun into incredibly strong threads, making it a common choice for building materials. In fact, due to the flexibility and strength of white asbestos, it makes up approximately 95% of the asbestos found in commercial or residential buildings. 

However, if you're trying to identify white asbestos, don't go solely by the colour — sometimes, it's too small to distinguish the colour and texture. In this case, the best decision is to get asbestos testing in Toronto. At Canada’s Restoration Services we provide comprehensive, 3rd party lab testing for quick, accurate results.

Where Can I Find White Asbestos?

White asbestos can be found in a wide variety of places, and not just in building materials. The most common places to find white asbestos is in adhesives, cement, drywall, insulation, roofing, and vinyl tiles — all because of its strong heat resistance and flexibility. During the peak popularity of asbestos, white asbestos was the go-to for manufacturers in commercial and residential buildings. 

Wherever you find white asbestos, don't risk your health and safety; contact our certified technicians at Canada's Restoration Services for asbestos removal services in Toronto. 

Is White Asbestos Dangerous?

Although white asbestos isn't the most dangerous form of asbestos to be around, like crocidolite asbestos, it still presents a myriad of health risks, and exposure can develop into asbestos-related illnesses from asbestosis to mesothelioma. There is no safe level of asbestos to be around, and exposure can happen in an instant. White asbestos fibres are stringy and curly, making them harder to be inhaled than other types, but there is still a risk to your health. Like any asbestos, they can break down easily and be ingested, leading to several asbestos-related illnesses, such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.

How to Detect White Asbestos?

If you're renovating or performing routine maintenance in your property, keep an eye out for where it may be: cement, drywall, tiles, and insulation. However, the best solution is prevention; before starting any projects or property maintenance, get an asbestos inspection to guarantee your health and safety. Our experienced and certified team can effectively determine the presence of asbestos and completely eliminate it.

Contact Canada's Restoration Services today to book an Asbestos Inspection!