FAQs

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Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring fibrous materials composed of thin, needle-like fibers. It is a naturally occurring material that resists exposure to fire, sound, water, and chemicals. It is composed of millions of fibers, which bind together to create a light yet virtually indestructible material. Although asbestos strengthens and fireproofs materials, it is banned in many countries.

Health risks are presented when asbestos fibers become airborne, increasing the chance of inhalation. Upon inhalation, asbestos fibers build up in the lungs and make it difficult to breathe. Asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer are three of the most common and most serious health issues associated with asbestos exposure.

In general, the health risks from short-term asbestos exposure is low. Undisturbed asbestos fibers are unlikely to pose health risks to occupants of the building. As long as it is in good condition, asbestos fibers should not become airborne, therefore decreasing the risk of inhalation.

Yes, a full good faith asbestos report is required per most building demolition permits, as well as a lead survey. Information gathered during the thorough inspection allows the owner or operator to determine which requirements of the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for asbestos will apply to the demolition or renovation project. The asbestos NESHAP prohibits the reinstallation or installation of any insulating materials that contain commercial asbestos if the materials are either molded and friable or wet-applied and friable after drying. It is not recommended that other asbestos containing materials be reused.

ACM stands for asbestos-containing material. ACM is defined as any material containing more than 1% asbestos. There are six types of asbestos, however, Chrysotile is the most commonly encountered form and accounts for 95% of all asbestos in use. Chrysotile is used in roofs, ceilings, walls, and floors of homes and businesses

Prior to the 1980s, asbestos was a common component used in building material, automotive parts, and textiles because of its fire-resistant, durable, and flexible nature. It is no longer mined or processed in the United States, but is still used in vinyl floor tiles, brake pads, and cement pipes.

There are also many materials that are still legally used in construction, renovation, and demolition processes. Piping, spray-applied and blown-in insulation, mastic, roofing material, caulking, and exterior building materials, cement siding, HVAC duct insulation, roofing shingles, spackling compounds, and fireproofing materials, to name a few.

Sampling and analysis in an accredited laboratory is the only way to determine the presence of asbestos.  Sampling and removal of asbestos from any structure must be done by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. Asbestos abatement companies are held to a high regulatory standard. They will properly test for the toxic material, follow strict regulations, and processes, and carry the right abatement removal equipment to keep them, others, and you safe from exposure.

After removal, the sealed bags are transported by a licensed asbestos hauler, to an EPA approved landfill, where it is completely buried to reduce the likelihood of it becoming exposed to air. Disposal manifests are required at the end of each project to ensure the waste arrived at the landfill as required. Anyone hauling asbestos is required to be licensed as an abatement contractor and carry environmental impairment insurance.

Since the amount of asbestos removal differs from job to job, removal costs also vary. A standard square footage calculation is difficult to provide because it’s based on many factors such as location of the asbestos, the type of asbestos removal needed, the amount that needs to be removed, the layout of the area, etc. We are most concerned with the safety of the client and our workers, so making sure all jobs are completed per regulations is our number one goal. Give us a call. We'll get you in touch  wits one of our estimators who will provide you with an accurate estimate based on your project specifications.