Ensuring Proper Asbestos Abatement & Removal

The term “asbestos abatement” refers to the methods and procedures used for removing, encapsulating, repairing and controlling fiber release from materials that contain asbestos. Although it is famous for its toxicity and adverse effects on health, asbestos does not present a health hazard if its fibers are not dislodged from the material. However, if the fibers get released into the air, they have the potential to be inhaled or spread by air currents, posing a serious health risk.

It was used widely in construction before it was banned in the 1980s. Even though its use in construction ceased in the 1990s, we shouldn’t forget that many buildings were built in Toronto and the GTA before the ban, and thus probably include asbestos-containing materials. Any damage to those materials can release asbestos microfibers into the air and cause contamination.

Inhaling these microfibers causes a variety of health issues, some of which can be fatal, like asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. Another very concerning fact is that asbestos contamination is not easily noticed, because asbestos doesn’t have a specific smell and symptoms of poisoning usually occur years, even decades after the exposure. Considering how detrimental asbestos is to health, its abatement is necessary to ensure safety in both residential and commercial buildings.

Types of Asbestos

If there is any concern about the presence of airborne asbestos, especially if there are visible ruptures on materials that are likely to contain this mineral (old floor tiles, pipe insulation, corrugated cement, etc.), the best and the safest way to go is to contact an asbestos testing and removal service. If the samples show the presence of asbestos, a removal procedure should ensue. Optimal removal procedure is selected based on the type of asbestos that is in question, its location and amount.

The term asbestos encompasses six different minerals, but three that were mostly used in construction include:

Chrysotile or white asbestos – this is the most common type, recognized by its fine-textured fibers. Chrysotile was often used for its heat resistance properties and flexibility and can be found in roofing materials, walls and floors made of cement mixed with asbestos, brake linings and insulation for pipes and appliances. This type of asbestos is often contaminated with traces of tremolite and very hazardous.

Amosite or brown asbestos – this type of asbestos was favored for its strength and very strong heat resistance. It was often used for making cement sheets, pipe insulation, ceiling tiles and products for thermal insulation. Amosite causes more severe negative effects on health and is more carcinogenic than chrysotile.

Crocidolite or blue asbestos – crocidolite was used for insulating steam engines, in pipe insulation, spray coatings and for making plastics. It has very thin and brittle fibers, making it one of the most hazardous types of asbestos.

Other three types of asbestos include tremolite, actinolite and anthophyllite. Tremolite and actinolite were not used commercially, but they are usually found in products made of chrysotile as contaminants.

Anthophyllite was used in lesser amounts for insulation and in construction. Just like the previous two types, it is also found as a contaminant in chrysotile asbestos.

All types of asbestos cause very serious health problems, consequently their removal requires protective gear, adequate equipment and expert knowledge. Reach out to Matrix Remediation for a guaranteed comprehensive asbestos removal. Our certified and well-experienced technicians use the latest technology and removal techniques, ensuring a thorough and safe cleanup. All removal work is guaranteed to pass the required third-party Asbestos Air Quality Testing, with a warranty of up to 20 years. Matrix offers its services at a reasonable price, and risk-free, no-obligation estimates and consultations.

If you suspect that there are asbestos deposits in your home, it is best to call a trusted expert. A professional can correctly identify the type of asbestos in question and knows the safest method to remove it. Matrix Remediation’s technical staff is experienced and well-equipped to ensure that asbestos abatement is performed in the safest and most efficient possible way. We offer a wide range of services for both small-scale and big-scale removal in commercial, residential, governmental and industrial locations.

Matrix Remediation provides its services in Calgary, Edmonton, and nearby communities. With experienced staff, competitive pricing, and fast turnaround time, we provide quality service to our growing number of clients. For a FREE assessment, contact Matrix at 1-888-885-8683 or visit our website at www.matrixremediation.com.