Unveiling the Dangers of Asbestos: Safeguard Your Property with The #1 Best

7/31/2023 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO always prioritize safety when handling asbestos.

It's essential to know how to identify asbestos in your property.

When disaster strikes a property, be it residential or commercial, it can lead to significant damage and distress for homeowners and business owners alike. From water damage to fire incidents, the challenges are numerous. However, amidst these trials, a silent and deadly threat may lie—asbestos. As a homeowner or business owner, understanding the common indications of asbestos presence and why you should choose SERVPRO® for assistance is crucial in protecting your property and its occupants. In this blog post, we'll explore the signs of asbestos, recount a recent scenario where SERVPRO's team discovered asbestos during water damage restoration, the safety precautions taken, and finally, delve into why choosing asbestos removal professionals is a prudent choice for any property restoration damage.

What is asbestos?

Before delving into the common indications of asbestos, it's essential to comprehend this hazardous material. Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in construction materials for decades due to their heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. However, the actual danger lies in the microscopic fibers that can become airborne when asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, posing severe risks. Here are the common indications of asbestos:

Vintage building materials

One of the most common indications that your property might harbor asbestos is the presence of vintage building materials. Properties constructed before the 1980s are more likely to contain asbestos in various building components, such as insulation, vinyl tiles, roofing materials, textured ceilings, and more. If your property has yet to undergo renovations or asbestos inspections, the probability of its presence increases significantly.

Textured ceiling

The infamous popcorn or textured ceiling was widely used in homes during the mid-20th century. If your property boasts this textured feature, it could be concealing asbestos fibers within its crevices. While it might be an appealing vintage design to some, it may pose a significant risk.

Pipe insulation

Older properties may have pipe insulation made from asbestos-containing materials. This insulation was commonly utilized due to its fire-resistant properties and ability to insulate hot water pipes. If your property has never undergone a thorough asbestos inspection, pipe insulation may be lurking as a hidden danger.

Vinyl Floor Tiles

Asbestos was also a key ingredient in vinyl floor tiles and adhesives used in flooring applications. If your property features vinyl floor tiles from the mid-20th century, there's a high probability they contain asbestos. Damaged or deteriorating tiles can release asbestos fibers into the air.

Deteriorating Roof Shingles

Roof shingles made with asbestos cement were prevalent in properties constructed before the 1980s. Over time, these shingles can deteriorate due to weather conditions, releasing asbestos fibers into the air and endangering the property's occupants.

Unveiling asbestos during water damage restoration

Recently, a residential property in an Athens historic neighborhood was afflicted by severe water damage. A burst pipe in the attic led to flooding in several rooms, including the basement. The homeowners quickly contacted SERVPRO of Athens for assistance, recognizing the urgency of the situation.

Upon arrival, the SERVPRO team, well-equipped with training and experience, promptly assessed the extent of the water damage and initiated the restoration process. As part of their comprehensive approach, the team conducted a thorough inspection to identify any potential hazards, including asbestos.

During the inspection, the team noticed the presence of vintage building materials, including textured ceilings and vinyl floor tiles. Aware of the risks associated with asbestos, they immediately collected samples and sent them to a certified laboratory for testing. The results confirmed their suspicions— asbestos was indeed present in the textured ceilings and vinyl floor tiles.

SERVPRO safety precautions

The discovery of asbestos prompted SERVPRO of Athens to prioritize safety measures for their team and the property's occupants. Following industry best practices, the asbestos professionals at SERVPRO devised a meticulous plan to remove and handle hazardous materials safely.

Containment

The affected areas were isolated using advanced containment measures to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers. Negative air pressure systems were set up to ensure that any released fibers remained confined to the work area.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The SERVPRO team donned full-body disposable suits, gloves, and respirators equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to safeguard themselves from inhaling airborne asbestos fibers.

Wet removal technique

A wet removal technique was employed to minimize the release of asbestos fibers. Wet removal involves using water or a specialized solution to dampen asbestos-containing materials, preventing the fibers from becoming airborne during removal.

Proper disposal

Asbestos-containing materials were carefully collected and sealed in leak-tight containers for proper disposal at approved waste facilities. Adhering to regulations and environmental guidelines was paramount to SERVPRO's commitment to responsible asbestos handling.

Why choose SERVPRO for asbestos removal?

When it comes to property restoration, choosing SERVPRO is a decision that brings numerous benefits, especially when asbestos might be a concern.

Certified professionals

SERVPRO boasts a team of certified professionals who possess extensive training and expertise in handling hazardous materials like asbestos. Their commitment to safety ensures that your property and its occupants are protected throughout the restoration process.

Comprehensive inspection

SERVPRO's team conducts a comprehensive inspection during their restoration assessment, keeping a keen eye out for potential asbestos hazards. If asbestos is detected, they take immediate action, avoiding potential risks and future liabilities.

State-of-the-Art equipment

Equipped with advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment, SERVPRO ensures that restoration processes are executed efficiently, minimizing downtime and promptly restoring your commercial property to its pre-damage condition.

Licensed and insured

SERVPRO is fully licensed and insured, providing you with peace of mind and assurance that you are working with a reputable and responsible restoration company.

Wrapping up

Water damage, fire incidents, and other disasters can wreak havoc on your property, and asbestos can add an extra layer of danger. Recognizing the common indications of asbestos and partnering with certified professionals like SERVPRO of Athens is vital to protecting property and ensuring a safe restoration process. With its commitment to safety, state-of-the-art equipment, and industry expertise, SERVPRO is the prudent choice for any commercial restoration damage. When you choose SERVPRO, you are not just selecting a restoration company but a team dedicated to safeguarding what matters most—your property and the people within it.