Roofers Mesothelioma Attorneys in West Virginia
In the past, asbestos was added to certain manufactured products, like siding and roofing materials, in order to strengthen them, boost durability and provide a certain degree of insulation and fireproofing for residential and commercial properties. In fact, the use of asbestos was so widespread that roughly 80 percent of buildings constructed prior to 1981 contain some amount of asbestos.
Therefore those working in the construction industry, like roofers and other remodeling workers, are at risk for harmful asbestos exposure. However, symptoms of exposure to asbestos do not appear until long after the initial exposure has occurred – sometimes even decades later.
What Types of Products Contain Asbestos?
Due to the nature of the job, and the types of materials used, it’s possible that asbestos exposure occurred if roofers have utilized:
- Asphalt roofing shingles
- Asphalt roofing felt
- Roof underlayment
- Sealants
- Flashing
- Cement roofing shingles
Additionally, roofers and construction workers may deal with other building products that contain asbestos, such as siding or joint compound. A number of construction products have been commonly associated with asbestos, such as:
- Slate siding
- Mastics
- Cement-asbestos board siding
- Wood shake vapor barriers
- Adhesives
- Paint
As asbestos was used in many of these products from the 1920s to the 1980s, many roofers and construction workers working with and around those products in that time frame may have been exposed to dangerous levels of asbestos. Unfortunately many of these roofing and construction materials remain in buildings and homes today, and therefore those working with and around those asbestos products are at an increased risk for exposures to asbestos.
Am I at Risk?
When weathering occurs, whether through heat, water or aging, it can weaken roofing and siding materials to the point where the asbestos particles in them become friable, which can lead to harmful asbestos particles being released into the air. Moreover sanding, breaking, cutting, sawing or drilling any of these asbestos-containing materials may release additional asbestos fibers which can enter one’s breathing zone.
When inhaled into the lungs, asbestos fibers can become lodged in the exterior lining of the lung and abdomen – both of which are integral to proper organ function. Ultimately this can lead to the development of mesothelioma.
Are you or someone you love experiencing mesothelioma-related symptoms, or dealing with a recent asbestos cancer diagnosis? If so, know that you are not alone, and there are resources – both medical and legal – available to you and your loved ones during your treatment.
Legal Guidance You Can Trust
Once you have consulted with a medical professional, your next step should be seeking the guidance of an attorney who focuses on handling complex medical cases, including those involving a mesothelioma diagnosis. Oftentimes, these types of cases require investigation into your background and work history, since occupational exposure is common among trade workers, such as roofers and construction workers.
At Antion McGee Law Group, PLLC, we focus on handling these types of cases, and have a great deal of experience in helping clients pinpoint when and where asbestos exposures may have occurred. We will work with you to explore your work history, as well as the work history of your family, to assess the degree of asbestos risk during your life.
No matter what the circumstances are surrounding your mesothelioma diagnosis, our mesothelioma law firm in West Virginia is prepared to support you and your loved ones every step along the way.
If meeting with one of our attorneys would be easier in your home or hospital, our legal team is prepared to travel to consult with you on your case. To get started, we invite you to contact Antion McGee Law Group, PLLC today at (304) 807-0739 to schedule a preliminary consultation.
