Have a home renovation on the horizon? Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional, it’s important to know what materials you’ll be dealing with in your home. One of those materials might just be asbestos.

Asbestos is the common name for a group of naturally occurring mineral fibers. It’s great for thermal and electrical insulation, but very dangerous for our bodies. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed and the fibers are released, it can affect the quality of the air we breathe. Inhaling or swallowing asbestos can cause serious health hazards, particularly if the exposure is prolonged.

While the presence of asbestos should be taken seriously, it’s no reason to panic. Here are three things you should know before you start that DIY home renovation project.

1. Asbestos Can Be in Common Building Materials

While asbestos-containing material has been partially banned, it can still pop up in common building products. In fact, there are more than 3,000 known products that may contain asbestos. These fibers may be present in textured (aka popcorn) ceilings, flooring, roofing, and siding. They can also show up in insulation.

2. Test Suspect Materials Before Disturbing Them 

If you have building materials in your home that commonly contain asbestos, have them tested by an accredited asbestos inspector licensed by the North Carolina Hazards Control Unit. These inspectors are trained to identify suspect materials and safely collect samples so a lab can check if there are any asbestos fibers.

The best thing to do with asbestos-containing materials in good condition is to leave it alone. If materials in your home contain asbestos, keep an eye on them for signs of damage, wear, or water damage. Consider covering the material with another non-asbestos material for additional stability and protection.

3. Call a Licensed Contractor—And Check Their License! 

If your home renovation project will disturb asbestos containing materials, call a licensed professional. While it may seem tempting to remove a popcorn ceiling or some vinyl tiles on your own, calling in a professional can ensure safe handling of asbestos-containing materials and lower the risk of exposure to particles. Keep in mind, that some home projects also require a permit.

For more information about asbestos, contact Mecklenburg County Air Quality at 704-336-5430.