PHILADELPHIA - When you buy a home, you should be aware of asbestos. In most states, a seller must disclose this substance's presence. However, they are not legally required to fix it. Therefore, it's important to raise the issue during the negotiation process. Otherwise, the seller may be reluctant to spend additional money to fix the problem. Additionally, other prospective buyers may be wary of the property due to its asbestos siding. This makes it important to discuss your concerns with your agent and the seller.
Asbestos Siding
If you're considering installing asbestos siding on your house, you should know a few things before getting started. First of all, you must be aware of the dangers associated with this material. Unless you're an expert in asbestos removal, you should only attempt to remove or cover asbestos siding with a certified professional. Asbestos fibers can easily become airborne and circulate throughout the surrounding air.
To identify asbestos, look for the markings on siding and roofing materials. These markings may also be visible on packaging. If unsure, you can take a sample of the material to a certified asbestos inspection facility for testing. You should also be aware of state laws regarding asbestos disposal, which are based on the state in which you live. Asbestos is dangerous and cannot be disposed of in a regular garbage can.
There are two main ways to remove asbestos from your house. One method is to cover it with vinyl or other non-asbestos material. However, covering the asbestos with vinyl or other materials can create a risk of exposure. If you choose to remove the asbestos siding, you should have the siding checked by an independent laboratory to determine whether the asbestos is present.
Buying A House With Asbestos Siding
When buying a home, buyers should ask the seller if there are any asbestos-containing materials in the home. Discover asbestos in the house before purchasing it. You should be prepared to negotiate a price reduction and ask the seller to remove the material before moving forward with the sale. Moreover, you should also ask your agent about the house's condition and discuss your concerns with them. Oftentimes, home sellers adjust their asking price to account for the potential cost of asbestos removal. During the negotiation process, buyers can also set up an asbestos inspection. The inspector will assess the condition of the home and recommend a remediation plan if necessary.
Asbestos removal is a more expensive option than asbestos encapsulation. The procedure involves covering the siding in a sealant to prevent the asbestos fibers from becoming airborne. However, encapsulation is the safest option and can save hundreds of dollars. But it's important to get multiple quotes for encapsulation before deciding on this option. Before choosing a particular option, ask the contractor about the product they use to encapsulate asbestos. Although asbestos cement can last for decades, it tends to dry and crack with time. Therefore, you may need to replace the asbestos-cement shingles after several decades.
Negative Impact On Resale Value
Asbestos cement siding can have a negative impact on the resale value of your home. Not only can it not be refinished, but it is also difficult to find replacements for worn-out areas. Furthermore, it is unattractive and hurts the look of a home. Hence, removing asbestos siding from your home as soon as possible is important.
Asbestos cement shingles can't be broken down easily by hand, so it's important to follow proper removal procedures. The materials should be wrapped in polyethylene sheeting to minimize the risk of airborne asbestos contamination. Then, properly dispose of the asbestos waste by transporting it to an approved landfill.
Asbestos siding is common in older homes with cement siding. It can be added to cement products by siding companies. Before buying an older home, you should contact a real estate agent to check the house for asbestos. Asbestos is harmful to your health.
Cost Of Asbestos Siding Removal
If you have asbestos siding in your house, you may wonder how much it will cost to remove it. The cost varies from home to home and can depend on the size of the home and its number of structures. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact a professional asbestos team. You can also research the topic online. A simple Google search will produce a variety of results. You can read forums and articles about the dangers of asbestos siding, as well as learn about the cost of asbestos siding.
Having asbestos siding removed from your home may cost around $1500 to $5,000. If you have to have it removed, you may be able to save money by doing it yourself. You will need special equipment, including a respirator and Tyvek suit. You will also need a ladder and pry bars for the higher areas of the home.
