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Asbestos Felt - Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Risks

Asbestos is a naturally-occurring substance that was widely used in construction materials in the twentieth century. However, it can also be a highly dangerous substance, and is known to cause a variety of diseases, including a rare and invariably fatal form of cancer called mesothelioma.

Asbestos felts, often used as roofing material since 1910 and still in use today, typically contain at least 10 to 15% asbestos, and may contain up to 75% to 90% asbestos. In addition to their use as roofing materials, asbestos felts may also be used as an acoustic and insulating lining for walls and floors, in adhesives, and has even been used as padding in pianos.

Newer asbestos-containing felts that are in good condition are generally safe. These materials contain asbestos fibers that are trapped within the matrix of the felt, and these fibers are unable to escape and be inhaled by the lungs. However, older felts may become friable, meaning that they are beginning to disintegrate, and in these cases there is the danger that asbestos fibers may be released into the air and potentially inhaled.

Protecting your Home and Family

One of the most dangerous aspects of asbestos is the nature of the diseases that may develop as a result of long-term exposure to the substance over several years. Mesothelioma and other diseases typically have a long latency period, meaning that two or more decades may elapse between asbestos exposure and the appearance of the disease. Because of this, and because of the non-specific nature of early symptoms of mesothelioma, this disease in particular is very difficult to diagnose. This difficulty in diagnosis, and the lack of a cure for mesothelioma, means that the mortality rate for this form of cancer is virtually 100%.

If you believe that your home may contain older asbestos felts or other construction materials containing asbestos, it's particularly important to realize that any remodeling activities or home renovations can potentially disturb sources of asbestos, releasing dangerous fibers into the air. For this reason, it may be a good idea to have potential sources of asbestos checked for the presence of asbestos fibers before beginning these activities. More importantly, if asbestos is present in your home, it is usually safest to employ professional contractors who are able to work with asbestos-containing products safely.

Asbestos and Your Rights

If you or a loved one develops mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease as a consequence of exposure to this substance, whether via contact with asbestos felt or another product, you have the right to claim compensation from the company or companies responsible for the asbestos exposure.

An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can assist you in a variety of ways. They can help you track down the source of asbestos exposure, and then determine the company that is responsible. They can advise you how to claim financial compensation and justice for loss of income and quality of life as a result of mesothelioma, and on whether to pursue a lawsuit or opt for a settlement.

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