green-contracting-without-asbestosLiving in a world where environmental sustainability is a vital concern, it is important to take note of the consequences of improper building materials and environmental degradation.

Environmental efficiency is on the rise because of new technology and energy saving methods. Not only will these methods produce a healthier lifestyle, it will save you money. Many older homes built prior to 1980 may still harvest obsolete and corrosive building materials which can create health concerns.

Asbestos is the name given for a group of fibrous minerals that were mined for their qualities as fire resistant, insulation and high durability. This can pose several risks to homeowners because asbestos fibers can be ingested during the renovation process.

Asbestos in the Home

Often appearing in roof shingles, popcorn ceilings, piping and insulation, asbestos became one of the most popular building applications of the 20th century. Asbestos made its name because of its resistance to fire and heat properties.

Improper insulation was used in millions of homes and while it is safe when enclosed or in good condition, deteriorated asbestos can cause a slew of health problems, such as an aggressive form of asbestos lung cancer known as malignant mesothelioma. Mesothelioma diagnosis is a difficult task for physicians due to a variety of reasons. These include: many mesothelioma symptoms mimic less serious conditions, length of latency period, age of exposure and cigarette smoking.

Designing GREEN

Implementing eco-construction, green energy solutions can have positive environmental, health and economic benefits. These include: Conservation of natural resources, enhanced air quality, energy sustainability, increased property value, better quality of life, improvement of pulmonary and cardiac health, and reduction of waste.

Recently, congress passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Included in this act were extensions to the tax incentives placed for energy efficiency in 2005, as well as new credits for homeowners who remodel or build using eco-sustainable methods. Some of the measures that are eligible for tax credits include added insulation to walls, ceilings, or other part of the building envelope that meets the 2009 IECC specifications. Storm doors paired with U-factored rated wood doors are also eligible as well as Cool Metal Roofing.

Rather than expensive and mal-treated wood, interior walls can be made from steel and concrete, avoiding many of the problems associated with asbestos and other insulation methods. Green alternatives to asbestos include the use of cotton fiber, lcynene foam and cellulose.