As the weather warms up and home improvement projects are at the top of many to-do lists, many people opt for do-it-yourself renovations rather than professional remodels. However, home renovations can be dangerous if you are unaware of the risks. Many older homes may contain asbestos, a harmful substance used in insulation and other building materials. Asbestos has been linked to mesothelioma, a rare form of lung cancer and other serious health problems.

Although asbestos has been eliminated from home construction materials for many years, asbestos remains a problem in older homes. In homes built before 1980, asbestos may be found in the joint compound used in the drywall, asbestos cement siding and boiler insulation materials to name a few locations.

Here are some tips and precautions to help protect you from asbestos during spring home renovations:

* Learn what materials may contain asbestos

Unless it is labeled, it is difficult to determine if a product may contain asbestos. Visit www.legalview.info for a list of products that contain asbestos or companies that sold asbestos-contaminated materials. Contact your local county or state health department to find how to test older floor tiles, insulation and other materials in your home.

* Hire a professional if needed

If your home was built before 1980, consult an expert to determine if the spackle or joint compound used in the drywall contains asbestos, especially if you are planning major renovations that involve knocking down drywall. Contact a licensed asbestos removal professional to help with home renovations. If you suspect asbestos may be present, try to avoid disturbing or damaging the material that may contain it. However, asbestos is not a health risk as long as it remains sealed or buried in walls. Unnecessary removals are a waste of money, so get multiple estimates from certified experts.

* Wear a mask

Asbestos fibers are harmful if inhaled. Do not eat or drink in a work area that may contain asbestos. Remember to wash your hands before eating or drinking.

* Avoid stirring up dust

Do not sweep, dust or vacuum debris that may contain asbestos as this can cause the fibers to enter the air. Also, avoid tracking materials that could contain asbestos through your house. If this is unavoidable, clean the area with a wet mop as this keeps the dust down.

* Don’t disturb it

If you suspect a material may contain asbestos, check for water damage or signs of wear and tear, as these may release asbestos fibers. Avoid contact that may damage the material, including hitting, rubbing or handling it.

Because the side effects of asbestos exposure can take 20 to 30 years to manifest, it is important to take precautions to keep you and your family safe in the years to come. Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.

For more information about asbestos and mesothelioma, visit mesothelioma.legalview.com.