Asbestos is a dangerous material that’s best left to professionals who have the proper gear, equipment and expertise. If improperly removed, asbestos can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and other diseases. Fortunately, there are a number of companies that offer professional asbestos removal near me for homes and businesses.
Before asbestos can be removed, the material must first be inspected and tested. A specialist will visit the home or business to visually inspect and collect samples for testing. This process can cost between $250 and $850, depending on local laws and regulations. If the pro finds no evidence of asbestos, there is no need for further action and the inspection fee will be refunded.
If asbestos is found, the expert will create barriers to prevent contamination from spreading during the abatement process. This will include sealing off the affected area with plastic sheeting and creating negative air pressure with fans. Professionals will wear special suits and respirators to ensure their safety as well. In most cases, occupants are asked to leave the home or business during abatement.
The abatement process involves removing all materials that contain asbestos. Then, workers will use vacuuming and other cleaning tactics to make sure no traces of the hazardous fibers remain. They will also perform air testing to confirm that the area is safe before removing the barriers and performing a final cleaning.
During the abatement process, asbestos is carefully contained and sealed in containers for disposal. The price of this can vary, but the typical cost is about $50 per cubic yard. Permits and disposal fees might also be added to the overall price, depending on local laws and regulations.
The type of asbestos will also impact the price. Chrysotile, or white, asbestos is the most common form of this material and is generally the most affordable to remove. Amphibole and tremolite, however, are more dangerous and require more extensive abatement techniques that can drive costs up significantly. This is especially true for large commercial buildings where the scope of work can be much more expansive.