What You Should Know about Asbestos Abatement

Asbestos is a dangerous material that was once commonly used in construction. If you discover asbestos in your home, it’s important to take action and remove it as soon as possible. This guide will walk you through the process of asbestos abatement, from assessing the risk to hiring contractors.

Ignoring the presence of asbestos can lead to serious health complications, so be sure to read this guide thoroughly and take action as necessary. We’ll walk you through some of the most critical things to know about asbestos abatement.

Dangers of Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications for many years. While it is an effective material for insulating and fireproofing, asbestos can be very dangerous when its fibers are inhaled or ingested.

Asbestos exposure has been linked to a number of serious health conditions, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Anyone exposed to asbestos must seek medical attention immediately. A doctor will perform tests to determine if the person has been exposed and whether or not they have any health conditions that may be related to the exposure.

Common Asbestos-Containing Materials in Buildings

There are many different types of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that can be found in buildings. Some of the most common ACMs include:

• Insulation materials: Asbestos insulation was commonly used in both residential and commercial buildings until the early 1980s. It can be found in walls, ceilings, floors, pipes, and HVAC systems.
• Cement products: Asbestos was often added to cement products, such as pipes, flooring, and siding.
• Fireproofing materials: Asbestos was commonly used in fireproofing materials, such as spray-on insulation and acoustic tiles.
• Drywall: Drywall that contains asbestos was used in some homes and businesses built before the 1980s.

Tips for Hiring an Asbestos Abatement Company

Given the dangers involved in residing in a building with asbestos, you must choose your asbestos abatement contractor carefully.

You need to consider several factors when making a hiring decision. Here are some valuable tips to simplify your decision:

Type of Asbestos Abatement Work

Not all asbestos abatement companies are created equal. Some may be more qualified to handle specific types of projects than others. When considering candidates, ask about the type of work they typically undertake and whether or not they have experience with your particular type of project.

There are four main types of asbestos abatement: removal, encapsulation, repair, and enclosure, and the contractor you hire should cover all these stages.

Asbestos removal is the most invasive type of asbestos abatement. It involves physically removing ACMs from a structure. This type of abatement is usually only done when the ACMs are in good condition and can be safely removed without releasing asbestos fibers into the air.

Encapsulation is a less invasive form of asbestos abatement. It involves coating or sealing ACMs so that they are no longer able to release asbestos fibers into the air. This type of abatement is often used for ACMs that are in poor condition or difficult to remove.

Repair involves repairing damaged ACMs so that they no longer release asbestos fibers into the air. This type of abatement is often used for ACMs that are in good condition but have been damaged by water, heat, or other sources.

Enclosure is the least invasive form of asbestos abatement. It involves sealing off an area containing ACMs so that people cannot come into contact with them. This type of abatement is often used for ACMs that are in good condition but are difficult to remove or encapsulate.

Hire Reputable Professionals

When it comes to asbestos abatement, you don’t want to take any chances. Be sure to research a company’s reputation before hiring them for the job. Ask around for recommendations or check online reviews to get a sense of what others have thought of their work.

If possible, try to connect with the past customers of the company you’re considering and obtain feedback about their experience with the provider.

Ask Questions

When interviewing potential asbestos abatement companies, be sure to ask the right questions. Find out what type of experience they have, what precautions they take to protect workers and bystanders, and what their rates are.

By asking the right questions, you can be sure you’re hiring an asbestos abatement company that will do the job safely and efficiently.

Follow Contractor’s Instructions

Asbestos removal is a very delicate process. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has strict rules and regulations that must be followed in order to ensure public safety. As a result, it is important that you only hire a contractor who is licensed and certified to handle asbestos removal.

Additionally, you must make sure to follow the specific instructions that your contractor provides. This may include vacating your home during the removal process and taking other precautions to protect yourself and your family.

By following all of the instructions provided by your asbestos removal contractor, you can help ensure a safe and successful removal process.

Asbestos Abatement Costs

Asbestos removal is a dangerous and expensive process. Homeowners should be aware of the potential costs before undertaking any asbestos abatement project. Asbestos abatement costs vary depending on the size and scope of the project.

The most common type of asbestos removal is friable asbestos, which is the most dangerous and expensive to remove. Friable asbestos removal typically costs between $10 and $30 per square foot. Non-friable asbestos removal typically costs between $2 and $5 per square foot.

By now, you should have developed an in-depth understanding regarding asbestos abatement. Not only are you now aware of the dangers of asbestos and the most common asbestos-containing materials, you have likely also learned how to choose the right contractor for the job and everything pertaining to asbestos costs.

If you suspect that your home or business contains ACMs, it is important to have the building thoroughly inspected by a trained professional. If ACMs are found, they should be removed by a certified asbestos abatement contractor. We truly hope that this guide helps you do the needful and that you, your colleagues, and your loved ones are able to work and live in a safe environment.