How do you reduce your risk of exposure to asbestos in your home?

If you are considering a renovation, demolition or adding an addition to your home, you can reduce your risk of exposure by hiring a professional to test for asbestos.  If asbestos is found, hire a qualified asbestos removal specialist to remove these products before beginning work.  You should avoid disturbing asbestos materials yourself as this increased the risk to you and your family’s health.  If you have vermiculite-based insulation in your attic, it may contain asbestos.  To avoid exposure do not disturb the attic insulation and you should not allow children in the attic or use the attic for storage.  All cracks and holes in the ceiling of the rooms below the insulation should be sealed and caulk around light fixtures and the attic hatch.  You may also want to caulk windows, door frames, baseboards and around electrical outlets in case the insulation has fallen through the walls over time.