If your house was built before the 1990s, it might contain asbestos — in insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, or even textured paint. Many homeowners are unaware of this hidden danger until they start a renovation project.
The rule of thumb is simple: do not disturb asbestos materials. As long as they’re intact and sealed, they pose minimal risk. Problems arise when cutting, drilling, or sanding releases fibers into the air. Before any major renovation, homeowners should hire a certified asbestos inspector to test suspicious materials.
If asbestos is found, removal should always be handled by professionals. DIY removal is both illegal and extremely dangerous. Governments provide guidelines and licensed contractors to ensure safe disposal. Awareness and caution can prevent accidental exposure that could cause illness decades later.