As warmer weather approaches, many homeowners begin major renovation projects involving demolishing existing walls, removing vinyl sheeting, and stripping skirting boards, cornices, pipes, and mastics. For residences and commercial sites constructed prior to Australia’s 2003 ban on asbestos products, this activity can pose serious risks, as these items can contain asbestos. So let’s explore some of these risks and how best to mitigate & address them with asbestos testing at home.
The Risks of Asbestos in Home Renovations
Vinyl Sheeting
Vinyl sheeting poses the largest degree of risk in any residential renovation project. Many were constructed with a white asbestos backing, which is not firmly bound and can easily become airborne, causing extensive asbestos contamination indoors. Remedial works following such disturbance must legislatively be performed under the highest level of control, often at great financial expense.
Walls
Walls made of fibro-cement products often contain asbestos fibres compacted within a cement binder. These can contain white, brown, and blue asbestos, posing significant health risks when disturbed during renovations.
Cornices
Formwork fibro-cement cornices can appear to be plaster and are often overlooked in hazardous materials assessments. However, they can contain asbestos and should be carefully tested and managed during renovation projects.
Pipes
Builders commonly used asbestos-containing pipe work as boiler and heater flues and for carrying drinking water to residences from municipal supplies. These pipes can contain blue asbestos, which is highly dangerous when disturbed.
Mastics
The sealant on window frames can contain white asbestos. One of the most encountered asbestos-containing materials is a bituminous coating, which can contain up to 30% white asbestos. This can be found beneath vinyl tiles as a binder and beneath sinks as soundproof lining (malthoid).
Importance of Asbestos Testing at Home
This is just an example of some of the asbestos-containing products in the home; so get it tested if in doubt! Asbestos testing in home settings is crucial for ensuring the safety of occupants. Vertex Analytics holds NATA accreditation (accreditation #21033) for the analysis and reporting of asbestos according to legislated methodologies (AS 4964 – 2004).
Asbestos Testing Cost
The cost of asbestos testing varies based on the extent of the inspection and the number of samples needing analysis. However, the investment homeowners can expect to shell out for comprehensive asbestos testing at home is essential to ensuring the health and safety of all occupants and for complying with regulatory requirements.
Asbestos Removal Testing
Once identified, licensed professionals must remove asbestos from a property under strict safety protocols. Conducting asbestos removal testing is crucial to ensure the effective removal of all asbestos materials and to confirm the area is safe for re-occupancy. This testing involves air monitoring and clearance inspections to confirm the absence of asbestos fibres.
Preparing for Safe Renovations
Before starting any renovation project, it is essential to conduct thorough asbestos testing at home. This includes inspecting all potential asbestos-containing materials, such as vinyl sheeting, walls, cornices, pipes, and mastics. Hiring a professional asbestos inspector can help identify these materials and recommend the appropriate course of action.
Hiring Professionals for Asbestos Testing and Removal
When it comes to asbestos testing and removal, it is crucial to hire licensed professionals with the expertise and equipment to safely handle asbestos-containing materials. Vertex Analytics offers comprehensive asbestos testing services. We accurately identify all materials and take the necessary precautions.
Next Steps
Summer renovations are an exciting time for homeowners, but they also come with the responsibility of ensuring safety, especially in properties that may contain asbestos. By investing in asbestos testing at home, understanding the asbestos testing cost, and ensuring proper asbestos removal testing, homeowners can protect their health and comply with regulations.
If you have any doubts or need assistance with asbestos testing in home settings, Vertex Analytics is here to help. For more information or to discuss your project requirements, please contact us here.
