Renovating your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to be aware of the potential hidden health risks.
Statista notes that building and renovating homes often involves contractors, who handle everything from new constructions to remodeling projects. Home renovation isn’t just limited to the interiors, it also includes upgrading external structures like gardens, garages, and lawns.
In 2022 alone, U.S. homeowners spent a staggering $566 billion on home improvements, aiming to enhance comfort and increase energy efficiency.
As you tear down old structures and breathe new life into your space, you might inadvertently expose yourself and your family to hazardous materials. Your health may suffer long-term consequences as a result of these risks. Before you start your next renovation project, take a moment to understand the risks and how to protect yourself.
Protecting Your Health Against Asbestos
Asbestos is a material that was widely used in construction throughout the 20th century, especially in insulation, roofing, and flooring. However, it’s now known that asbestos fibers, when disturbed during renovations, can become airborne and inhaled, leading to severe respiratory diseases.
JSE Labs states that if your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a chance that asbestos may be present. Before starting any renovations, an asbestos survey must be performed by an expert. If asbestos is discovered, it should only be removed by qualified professionals who can handle the material safely and minimize exposure.
According to TorHoerman Law, if you or a loved one was exposed to asbestos and experienced health problems, legal alternatives are available. Asbestos-related diseases often lead to lawsuits where victims seek compensation for medical expenses and suffering. Experienced asbestos lawyers specialize in these cases and can help navigate the complex legal process to ensure you receive justice.
These asbestos lawsuits are crucial for holding responsible parties accountable and providing compensation to affected individuals. Asbestos lawyers offer valuable support in proving the link between exposure and illness, ensuring you have the best chance of a successful outcome. If you suspect asbestos exposure, consulting with a lawyer can help you understand your rights and take appropriate action.
A July 2024 update from the Lawsuit Information Center talks about a troubling West Virginia asbestos lawsuit involving exposure from an abatement project. The plaintiff, a former nursing student at Fairmont Medical Center, alleges she was exposed to asbestos between 1998 and 2004. This case is a notable example of how asbestos exposure during such projects is increasingly becoming a legal concern.
The Risks of Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are substances present in a wide range of construction products, including paints and coatings. These chemicals can slowly off-gas over time, emitting dangerous gasses into the atmosphere. When renovating, the disturbance of old materials containing VOCs can increase exposure, leading to headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems.
The Minnesota Department of Health mentions that breathing in low levels of VOCs over long periods can pose health risks. Studies show that for people with asthma or those sensitive to chemicals, VOC exposure might worsen symptoms. This kind of exposure differs significantly from occupational exposure.
To minimize this risk, opt for low-VOC or VOC-free materials in your renovation projects. Proper ventilation during and after renovation is also crucial to reducing the concentration of these compounds in your home, ensuring a safer living environment.
The Overlooked Danger of Electrical Hazards
Renovating your home often involves updating or modifying electrical systems, which can pose significant risks if not handled properly. Older homes might have outdated wiring, frayed insulation, or faulty connections that can lead to electrical shocks, short circuits, or even fires.
During renovations, disturbing these systems without proper knowledge can be extremely dangerous. It’s essential to have a licensed electrician inspect your home’s wiring before making any changes.
FAQs
When to worry about asbestos?
Worry about asbestos if your home was built before the 1980s and you’re renovating or disturbing old materials. Asbestos is dangerous when its fibers become airborne, leading to inhalation risks. If you suspect asbestos, have a professional inspection to ensure safety and avoid exposure.
Why does my house have high VOCs?
High VOC levels in your home can come from paints, solvents, cleaning products, or old building materials. These compounds can off-gas over time, increasing indoor air pollution. To reduce VOCs, use low-VOC products, ensure good ventilation, and regularly clean your home.
Is 40-year-old wiring safe?
Forty-year-old wiring might not be safe, as it could be outdated and prone to wear. Older wiring systems might be a fire danger and may not comply with modern safety regulations. Get the wiring inspected and updated by a certified electrician to make sure it satisfies current safety regulations.
Renovating your home can be exciting, but it also hides potential health and safety risks. Asbestos, VOCs, and outdated electrical systems are just some of the serious concerns. Homeowners should prioritize safety by getting thorough inspections, hiring qualified professionals, and choosing non-toxic materials.
Remember, creating a beautiful home shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. Proactively addressing these hazards ensures a healthier and happier living space.
