Asbestos has properties that make it heat resistant and chemical resistant. It used to be used in a lot of different building materials, some of which include ceiling tiles, shingles, siding, floor tiles, and much more. However, asbestos was found to cause a type of cancer known as mesothelioma, and this is why it became illegal to use in building materials. The problem is that a lot of homes and businesses already had it. When the asbestos isn't disturbed, the risks it brings are lower. However, if the asbestos is disturbed, then it can be very dangerous for those exposed to it because it will get into the air and they will breathe it in. You can learn more about asbestos here: 

How do you know if you have asbestos?

You will want to know if you have asbestos in your home or business before you begin any type of improvements that could upset the asbestos and lead to serious physical consequences to your health and the health of anyone else that is in the building. If you know that your home or building was built before the law prevented the use of asbestos, you can't know for sure whether asbestos was used. The only way that you are going to be able to know if there is asbestos in the home is to have an asbestos inspection. 

Why is an asbestos inspection and abatement important?

Even when asbestos isn't disturbed, it still has risks, even if they are less. This is why you really should know whether there is asbestos in your home or business, even if you don't plan on remodeling anytime soon. By having an asbestos inspection done, you will know where you have asbestos if there is any. Then, you can have asbestos abatement done, and this is where professionals come to get rid of all of it for you so your home or business will be safe. If you plan on remodeling, then an asbestos inspection absolutely needs to be your first step so you know no one will be put at risk. 

Now that you have a proper understanding with regards to the dangers of asbestos, you will see why an asbestos inspection is so important when in doubt. After the inspection, you will know what does or does not need to be done and you will have peace of mind. To learn more, contact a company that offers testing for asbetos.