At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, based right here in Birmingham, Alabama, we prioritize not only craftsmanship but also the health and safety of every homeowner we serve. One topic we’re often asked about—especially when working on older homes—is asbestos. Once a common material in building products, asbestos can pose serious health risks if disturbed. Below, we answer six of the most common questions regarding the symptoms of asbestos exposure, how to respond to possible contact, and what to know as a homeowner.
The symptoms of asbestos exposure often take years—even decades—to appear, which is why it’s referred to as a “silent threat.” The first signs typically affect the lungs and may resemble more common respiratory issues. These early symptoms include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and sometimes a crackling sound when breathing. Some individuals might also experience fatigue and unintentional weight loss. Because these signs can be mistaken for other health problems, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know if you’ve lived in or worked around an older home or building where asbestos may have been present.
If you suspect you’ve been exposed to asbestos—especially during a remodeling project or while living in an older home—the best course of action is to avoid panic and take prompt, informed steps. First, limit further exposure by vacating the affected area and avoiding any activities that could disturb more material. Second, consult a medical professional and let them know about your potential contact with asbestos. They may recommend diagnostic imaging such as a chest X-ray or CT scan to look for any signs of lung changes. It’s also wise to document the location and conditions of the exposure in case future health monitoring or claims become necessary. From a renovation standpoint, contact licensed asbestos abatement professionals immediately. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we always work alongside certified environmental specialists to test and handle potential asbestos hazards before any demolition begins.
Determining if asbestos is present in a home isn’t always straightforward, especially since it was commonly used in a wide range of materials through the 1970s and into the 1980s. Typical places you might find asbestos include insulation, popcorn ceilings, floor tiles, ductwork, siding, and roofing shingles. Unfortunately, asbestos fibers are microscopic and cannot be identified just by looking. The only definitive way to confirm its presence is through professional testing. In Birmingham and surrounding areas, we partner with licensed environmental testing labs to analyze material samples safely. If you’re planning a renovation or have concerns about an older home, don’t attempt to remove or disturb any suspicious materials yourself. Our team can coordinate proper testing and ensure your project moves forward safely and legally.
Unlike many other environmental hazards, asbestos-related illnesses develop slowly over time. Most diseases and symptoms of asbestos exposure, such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, or lung cancer, result from prolonged or repeated exposure over years—often in occupational settings. However, in rare cases, individuals who have experienced significant short-term, high-concentration exposure can develop issues sooner. It’s important to remember that simply being near asbestos isn’t inherently dangerous—what matters is whether the asbestos fibers are airborne and inhaled. That’s why we take precautions to prevent disturbance of asbestos-containing materials in any of our remodeling projects. Even one-time exposure is enough reason to inform your healthcare provider so they can include it in your medical history and recommend regular monitoring.
When disturbed, asbestos fibers can remain suspended in the air for hours or even days, depending on airflow, ventilation, and the nature of the material. These fibers are extremely lightweight and invisible to the naked eye, which makes them especially dangerous. In enclosed or poorly ventilated areas, such as attics, basements, or sealed-off construction zones, airborne asbestos can linger much longer. This is why any suspected asbestos-containing material should never be sanded, drilled, or removed without proper containment and air filtration systems. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we follow EPA-recommended procedures to ensure our workspaces remain safe and compliant. Before any construction begins in older homes, we conduct thorough assessments and arrange for abatement if needed. Peace of mind and safety come first.
Unfortunately, once asbestos fibers enter the lungs, they tend to stay there. The body has a difficult time removing them, and over time, this can lead to scarring of lung tissue (asbestosis) or even cancer. There is currently no cure for diseases caused by asbestos exposure, but early detection can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. That said, not everyone who is exposed will become ill—much depends on the level and duration of exposure, individual health factors, and whether protective steps were taken afterward. Quitting smoking, avoiding further exposure, and undergoing routine lung screenings can help reduce risks and catch any problems early. For homeowners, the most effective form of protection is prevention: don’t touch or disturb suspected materials, and always work with qualified professionals when renovating.
At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we’ve served the Birmingham area long enough to know that every home has its own history—and sometimes, that history includes outdated and potentially harmful materials like asbestos. Our team takes every precaution to keep you and your family safe before, during, and after remodeling work. If you’re unsure whether your home may contain asbestos or you simply want peace of mind before beginning a renovation, we’re here to help. From environmental testing referrals to full remodel planning and execution, we treat your home as if it were our own. Safety isn’t just a box we check—it’s a foundation we build on.
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is a full service general construction firm and remodeling contractor operating in the Birmingham metro and Jefferson and Shelby County areas and surrounding communities, including Birmingham, Helena, Chelsea, Mountain Brook, Hoover, Homewood, Montevallo, Alabaster, Vestavia Hills, and Pelham, with over 30 years of servicing our valued clients. Offering full service suite of general remodeling, design and build services. Our specialties include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exterior renovations, interior renovations, painting, and more!
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