Michigan Homeowners Implementing Green Alternatives to Asbestos

Located in the mid western part of the United States, Michigan is renowned for being the eighth most populous state in the country. Hosting four out of the five great lakes, automotive industry and beautiful sceneries, the state is one of the ideal places to call home. The path to home ownership is an exciting time, but one that will bring other responsibilities into your life.

Having the assistance of a professional real estate agent can make the process smoother and less stressful. Many older homes may need additional repairs or remodeling. This is especially the case when these homes still harbor older, corrosive building materials.

Used in many construction applications for the greater part of the 20th century, asbestos is a fibrous mineral that possesses many intrinsic traits. In most situations, asbestos appears in roof shingles, dry wall, attic insulation, popcorn ceilings, joint compounds and electrical wires. It’s flame resistant and durable qualities made it an ideal choice for many industries. Potential Gladwin, Michigan home buyers or those seeking to remodel an older home should be aware that homes built before 1980 may still contain asbestos materials.

This by no means should make you jump out of your seat because asbestos exposure is easily preventable by taking simple precautions. There are now many green insulation options that replace the need for asbestos.

According to the experts, the general rule of thumb is if the asbestos is in good shape, it's posing no apparent risk. If it's in bad shape, it could be a problem. In many situations, the best action in dealing with asbestos is no action at all. However, if an inspector deems removal necessary, it must be performed by a licensed abatement contractor who is trained in handling asbestos materials.

Prolonged exposure to asbestos can cause related lung ailments such as pleural mesothelioma, a form of asbestos lung cancer that accounts for three percent of cancer diagnoses in the country each year. Due to the fact many mesothelioma symptoms are similar to less serious ailments, mesothelioma diagnosis is one of the more difficult tasks physicians encounter.

With growing education and technology in green sustainable energy and building resources, Michigan has taken actions to ensure safety and health is a top priority in this great state. Non-profit organizations such as Michigan GREEN, consists of energy consultants and companies who have joined forces with schools, government agencies and conscious individuals to promote the cause of renewable and green efficiency throughout the U.S. Its goals include increasing public awareness on energy efficiency, renewable energy and application of new green technologies to increase the youth’s awareness of energy conservation.

Focusing to rid Michigan of asbestos use and other harmful materials, they also focus to protect the water and open spaces. With many health options such as cotton fiber, lcynene foam and cellulose, Environment Michigan is working hard to give the state the healthy environment that the people deserve.