When it comes to home renovations, understanding the materials that make up your walls is crucial. Whether you’re planning a DIY project or working with professionals, having knowledge about common wall materials will help you make informed decisions, ensure safety, and achieve the desired outcome.
Here are a few things to consider – and what you should know – about all of the most common materials found in walls during home renovations, their characteristics, and the considerations for handling and modifying them.
Identifying Lead in Walls
Identifying lead in walls during home renovations is essential to ensure the safety of you and your family, especially in older homes that may have been painted with lead-based paint. Lead exposure can lead to serious health issues, particularly for young children and pregnant women.
It’s particularly dangerous because even small amounts can cause great harm over a long period of time.
You can get lead poisoning through:
- Ingesting lead or lead-based paint
- Touching lead-based paint
- Breathing in any fumes from burning lead paint
If you suspect your home might have been painted with lead-based paint, it’s essential to hire a reputable lead removal company like Watkins Environmental to properly remove the materials and keep your home safe.
Recognizing Asbestos in Wall Construction
Recognizing asbestos in wall construction is vital during home renovations or when dealing with older buildings. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in construction materials for its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, it is now known to be extremely hazardous when its fibers become airborne and are inhaled, potentially leading to serious health issues, including lung diseases and cancer. Here are some steps to help you recognize asbestos in wall construction:
- Age of the building: Asbestos was commonly used in building materials until the late 1980s when its use was significantly restricted or banned. If your building was constructed before the late 1980s, there is a higher likelihood of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) being present in the walls. *Note: Keep in mind that although it was banned, there was a large amount of materials with asbestos present which was continued to be used by builders ignoring the ban. So unfortunately, there’s no safe cutoff for a certain time frame when a home or business would have those materials in it. Furthermore, anytime renovations are being done a comprehensive hazardous material survey is required prior to moving forward.
- Visual inspection: Look for signs of potential ACMs. Asbestos cement sheets may have a corrugated appearance, and asbestos insulating board (AIB) may appear as a smooth, grayish board. Asbestos joint compound is typically white and may have a powdery texture, while textured coatings may have a popcorn or stippled appearance. *Note: a lot of building materials look similar, so it’s always best to perform a professional inspection to confirm the presence of asbestos.
- Visual inspection: Look for signs of potential ACMs. Asbestos cement sheets may have a corrugated appearance, and asbestos insulating board (AIB) may appear as a smooth, grayish board. Asbestos joint compound is typically white and may have a powdery texture, while textured coatings may have a popcorn or stippled appearance. *Note: a lot of building materials look similar, so it’s always best to perform a professional inspection to confirm the presence of asbestos.
- Professional inspection: If you suspect the presence of asbestos or are unsure about the materials in your walls, it’s best to consult with a certified industrial hygienists. These professionals have the expertise and proper equipment to safely collect samples for laboratory analysis.
- Professional asbestos removal: If asbestos is found in your walls, avoid disturbing the material. Asbestos-containing materials can be safe when undisturbed, but any attempts at renovations, drilling, or removal can release dangerous fibers into the air. Hire professionals experienced in asbestos abatement to handle the material safely and in compliance with local regulations.
Other Common Wall Materials and Considerations
Paint and older homes that may contain asbestos aren’t the only things to consider during a home renovation. Other materials, including drywall and plaster, should be thoroughly examined prior to any renovation as well to ensure safety and achieve a successful home renovation.
Drywall (Gypsum Board)
Commonly used in modern construction, drywall is a panel made of gypsum sandwiched between thick paper sheets. It provides a smooth surface for painting and finishing.
- Be cautious when drilling or cutting into drywall, as inhaling gypsum dust can be harmful. Use proper safety equipment, such as masks and goggles.
- Ensure that the drywall is properly secured to the studs for stability.
- If you encounter water damage or mold on drywall, address the issue promptly to prevent further deterioration.
Plaster
Plaster is an age-old wall material that was extensively used before drywall became popular. It consists of a mixture of lime, sand, and cement applied in layers to create a smooth and durable surface. At one point in time, plaster commonly contained asbestos.- Renovating plaster walls can be more challenging than working with drywall due to their thickness and composition.
- Properly assess the condition of the plaster to determine if repairs or replacement are necessary.
- Patching or repairing plaster requires skill, so consider hiring professionals for the best results.
Insulation
Insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining temperature control and energy efficiency within a home. Common insulation materials include fiberglass, cellulose, and foam.- Inspect the existing insulation for signs of damage or deterioration during renovations.
- When installing new insulation, ensure it is appropriately sized and fits tightly to prevent air leakage.
- Follow safety guidelines when handling insulation materials, as some may cause skin irritation or respiratory issues.
Trust Watkins Environmental During Your Home Renovation
When it comes to staying safe during your home renovation, it’s crucial to hire a professional to help you remove lead-based paint or perform asbestos removal. As a C22, ASB, and HAZ Certified Asbestos Abatement Contractor, asbestos removal is our #1 performed service. We have over 25 years of experience in the field, making our team highly knowledgeable industry experts on the entire process.
Contact us today for a free estimate or to ask a question about your specific project.
FAQs
Is it common to find lead in walls during home renovations?
Lead can be found in older homes, particularly in paint or ceramic tile with lead-based glazing. It’s important to take precautions when renovating to avoid lead exposure.
What are the health risks of asbestos in wall construction?
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health conditions, including lung diseases and certain cancers. Identifying and safely handling asbestos-containing materials is crucial during renovations.
Are there alternative materials to replace asbestos-containing materials in walls?
Yes, there are safer and asbestos-free alternatives available for insulation, coatings, and other wall construction materials. Consult with professionals for suitable replacements.
How can I ensure the safety of my family during home renovations involving wall materials?
It’s important to conduct a proper professional inspection of hazardous materials, and seek professional assistance when needed.
Can I remove lead or asbestos from walls myself?
It is highly recommended to hire trained and licensed professionals like Watkins Environmental for the removal of lead or asbestos-containing materials to ensure safe handling and disposal.
