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Mold Removal and Mildew Removal

Mold Inspection, Mold Identification and Mold Testing

Mold Prevention

Humidity in the Home

Asbestos

Home Air Quality

Glossary Of Terms

Accredited Laboratory — A lab that has been accredited by a recognized agency to the ISO 17025 Standard.

Aflatoxin — A Mycotoxin which is known to be one of the most toxic naturally occurring substances which is from Aspergillus flavus mold growth.

Allergen — A substance such as mold or pet hair which can cause an allergic reaction.

Ambient air — Outdoor air or representative of a general volume of indoor air.

Amplification of molds — Any indoor scenario which may increase the concentration of molds such as moisture in a wall cavity or mold growth in an HVAC system.

Anti-fungal treatment — Any mold remediation activity which removes, disinfects, or treats surfaces contaminated by mold.

Asbestos — A naturally occurring mineral fiber used in hundreds of building and insulation materials. Exposure to asbestos is a known health risk for cancer especially due to occupational contact. Asbestos is a regulated material and professional removal using engineering controls is recommended in most cases.

Asthma — A condition of respiratory sensitivity when lung tissue swells in reaction to exposure to particles which irritate the small passages of the lung tissue.

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Blog

All About Asbestos: What It Is, How To Test For It and How To Remove It

Asbestos testing begins with a sample of the material which is suspected of containing asbestos. When the sample is removed, it is then sent to a laboratory for testing. The testing involved using highly sensitive machines that are able to detect asbestos fibers. Since asbestos is a very dangerous mineral, only professionally trained asbestos inspectors should handle the material.

Not only are asbestos inspectors trained at asbestos removal, they also are familiar with the required paperwork to have the material tested for asbestos – making it easier and more convenient for the homeowner.

Asbestos is a fibrous materials that is fire resistant, making it perfect for use in home and building construction. In fact, it was readily used until the late 1980s when health-related issues became apparent. Older structures and homes are more likely to have asbestos-containing products than recently constructed homes and structures. Asbestos was once used as insulation for water pipes, in the construction of ceiling tiles and fiberboards. Although we now know the health risks associated with asbestos, and its use has declined significantly.

Even though many plumbers and electricians are usually able to identify asbestos in homes because they see it so much, it is strongly recommended all asbestos testing and asbestos removal be handled by professional asbestos inspectors.

Handling asbestos products, and including asbestos testing and asbestos removal, is best left to the professionals with the necessary equipment. For more information on asbestos testing, asbestos removal or asbestos in general, contact Northern Virginia’s asbestos experts at RTS Environmental. Serving all of Maryland, Washington DC and Northern Virginia, in addition to the communities of Columbia, MD and Falls Church, VA, RTS Environmental is available for consultations and guidance on removing asbestos from your home.