How Ontario’s Rainy Weather Can Trigger Asbestos Exposure

Studies show that the weather in the Greater Toronto Area is only going to get wetter and rainier this year. Beyond simply being a nuisance, the expected increase in precipitation poses a problem for property owners, both commercial and residential. When the rain falls, leaks, overflows, and flooding can quickly cause water damage in Toronto properties, leaving everyone scrambling to manage repairs and restoration. In an effort to fix damaged building materials and streamline mold removal, repair teams, property owners, and occupants can accidentally find themselves in the path of asbestos.

While water damage won’t directly cause asbestos-related illness, these types of repairs can put anyone in proximity at risk if not preventatively addressed by inspections and asbestos removal in Toronto when necessary.

What Properties Are Likely to Have Asbestos

Asbestos was a common building material used throughout the 20th century due to its fire-resistant properties and durability. Unfortunately, its widespread use means that many older buildings, especially those constructed before the 1980s, are likely to contain asbestos in some form. In Toronto, residential homes, schools, office buildings, and even industrial sites built before this period are at higher risk. When these buildings suffer from water damage, the risk of asbestos exposure significantly increases.

Building Materials That Asbestos Was Used For

Asbestos was used in a variety of building materials, including:

• Insulation: Found in walls, attics, and around pipes.
• Flooring: Vinyl tiles, adhesives, and linoleum often contained asbestos.
• Roofing: Shingles, felt, and cement used in roofs.
• Drywall: Joint compound used in walls and ceilings.
• Textured Paints and Coatings: Used for decorative purposes.

Given its pervasive use, any renovation or repair work on these materials in an older building can potentially disturb asbestos fibers, making safe handling and removal critical.

How Water Damage Can Release Asbestos Fibers

When water infiltrates a building, it can weaken and damage asbestos-containing materials, leading to the release of fibers. For instance, flooding can saturate drywall, causing it to crumble and release asbestos dust. Similarly, water damage in Toronto homes can cause ceiling tiles to collapse or insulation to become disturbed. Once airborne, asbestos fibers can be inhaled, posing serious health risks including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Why You Should Beware of Asbestos After Water Damage

After water damage occurs, immediate action is often necessary to prevent further structural damage and to address mold removal. However, hastily starting repairs without proper asbestos testing can lead to inadvertent exposure. Since asbestos fibers are microscopic, they can linger in the air and be inhaled without anyone realizing the danger. Therefore, it is essential to have a professional assessment and asbestos removal in Toronto conducted to ensure safety.

How an Experienced Restoration Company Can Help

Engaging an experienced restoration company is vital when dealing with water damage, particularly in older buildings where asbestos might be present. These professionals can:

1. Conduct Thorough Inspections: They can test for asbestos in potentially affected areas before starting any work.
2. Implement Safety Protocols: Use specialized equipment and containment methods to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers.
3. Efficiently Handle Mold Removal: Address mold issues without disturbing asbestos-containing materials, ensuring comprehensive safety.
4. Expert Asbestos Removal: If asbestos is found, they can carry out proper asbestos removal in Toronto, following all regulatory guidelines to protect both workers and occupants.

Water damage in Toronto properties is a growing concern due to increasing rainfall. Repairing the damage often requires dealing with mold removal and other related issues. However, the presence of asbestos in many older buildings necessitates careful handling and professional intervention to avoid health risks. By working with experienced restoration companies, property owners can safely manage water damage and asbestos exposure, ensuring a safer environment for everyone involved.