Nobody relishes the idea of having to spend money on a problem they didn't even know about.  Small businesses and private households alike have tight budgets these days, and it can be hard to balance basic bills — never mind the additional expense of complex building work.  With something like asbestos removal, it can be especially frustrating.  It's not like normal construction work, where you can look forward to a new extension or upgrade to your home.  However, don't be deceived.  Asbestos removal is a complicated procedure and well worth spending your hard-earned cash on.  It simply should not be attempted by amateurs, even if you know it'll save a few dollars.  Here's why.

It's A Carcinogen

You're getting it removed for a reason, after all.  Asbestos is an extremely volatile and toxic substance.  Whether the asbestos in your home is friable or non-friable - which you may not know without an expert analysis - you'll be putting your own health at risk by handling it, and the health of your family or fellow business associates.  Just wearing a mask over your face is not enough.  Without the training required to get an asbestos removal license, you have no idea of the serious risks you're taking.

You Need to Get It All

Asbestos is so dangerous that it should be thought of like poison - the less of it in your building, the better.  It's a substance that becomes especially toxic when disturbed.  While you may not have seen any ill effects during the time you've spent living or working around it, then, you certainly will if you remove a portion of the asbestos, and leave some behind.  This can be done accidentally, or because you run out of time, or for a whole plethora of reasons - but if the job's not completed quickly and cleanly, you will actually be causing a greater hazard than simply leaving it there.

It Must Come Out

That's not to say that you should think about leaving it there.  In the event of an emergency such as a flood, fire or earthquake, structural damage to your building becomes doubly dangerous.  Not only are you and your fellow occupants at the immediate risk of the collapsing or damaged building, but you may be exposed to carcinogens along with it.  It's unlikely to happen, but why take the risk?

In essence, it's vital to remind yourself that asbestos removal companies perform a difficult and dangerous process.  It's not fun to pay out for something that you can't see or feel - but it is safe and sensible.

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