When we hear the word asbestos most of us freak, but is there actually a real scare when removing asbestos?
The removal of asbestos is not just tedious work but can be expensive as well. With prices ranging from $1,000- $3,000 per square foot, a 1,500 square foot home with asbestos everywhere will cost anywhere from $20,000 to $30,000. Removal of asbestos also has to be performed by a licensed professional and in some states, the removal may even be illegal and is not recommended. When handling asbestos there are major rules that must be followed to prevent dangerous asbestos fibers from becoming airborne since exposure can lead to several diseases, including lung cancer. Even though asbestos is on a decline since new regulations have been in place there are still many older homes and buildings that may contain these fibers.
The first step is to identify where the asbestos is located. Home materials that contain asbestos are caulking, cement sheeting, concrete, electrical breakers, millboard, plasters, sheetrock, siding, wiring, textured ceilings, wires, and vinyl floor tiles. If asbestos is suspected a licensed professional will typically test the fibers and if it turns out that there is asbestos they will recommend a complete removal, known as encapsulation. To start this process the work area must be sealed off, HVAC units must be off and air vents must be sealed to prevent the fibers from circulating. Wet and HEPA filter vacuums must be used, technicians must use protective gear including a full-face mask respirator. All materials must be sealed in a air-tight container and at the end of each shift, technicians soiled clothes should be bagged and contained. Technicians should also shower in a separate room from the work area to prevent contamination. Finally, all federal rules must be followed.
Learn more at Asbestos Removal Sydney.