Asbestos Removal Service in Newtown
Homeguard Environmental Services became a trusted provider in the Newtown area when we began operations about four decades ago. Our asbestos removal service is managed and run by locals, and our savvy, effective, personalized solutions are designed to keep you, your family, and/or your staff safe from the dangers of asbestos and lead. Our fully licensed, bonded, and insured enterprise is always at your service, whether your needs require a comprehensive plan to make your home a more secure environment or a comprehensive strategy to protect your employees. Every dedicated and diligent member of our crew exhibits essential qualities like expertise, a vast amount of knowledge, and trustworthiness. We’ve also secured an A+ rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, which means you can be completely certain that we stand ready to meet your needs. Contact Homeguard Environmental Services now and let us get to work restoring comfort, safety, and mental peace to your residence or workplace!
All About Asbestos
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its remarkable heat resistance and durability. Asbestos was widely used for fire protection from the late 19th century through much of the 20th century, with its peak usage occurring from the 1940s to the 1970s. It was valued for its fireproofing properties and affordability, leading to its widespread use in various construction materials, insulation products, and fireproofing applications. However, due to the recognized health hazards associated with asbestos exposure, its use for fire protection purposes has significantly declined since the 1980s.
Asbestos fibers are long, thin, and highly flexible, making them ideal for reinforcing materials like cement, insulation, and fireproofing products. Due to its fire-resistant nature, asbestos was commonly used in buildings for insulation, roofing, flooring, and electrical insulation. Over time, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure became evident, leading to strict regulations and guidelines for its safe removal and disposal.
What makes asbestos so dangerous?
The microscopic fibers of asbestos present a substantial health risk to humans. When disturbed, materials containing asbestos can release fibers into the air, posing inhalation or ingestion hazards. Respiratory diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma are primary concerns linked to asbestos exposure.
Asbestosis
Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can result in asbestosis, a chronic lung condition characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. Asbestosis can cause breathing difficulties, diminished lung function, and a lowered quality of life. The tricky thing about asbestosis is that it takes a long time for symptoms to arise, so people typically don’t know they have this condition until many years after asbestos exposure.
Lung Cancer
Combining asbestos exposure with smoking greatly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Smokers exposed to asbestos fibers are at a higher risk of health issues than non-smokers. This emphasizes the critical need to avoid asbestos exposure altogether, especially for individuals who smoke or have a history of smoking.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, an aggressive and often fatal cancer, is closely linked to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma mainly targets the linings of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, and generally has limited treatment options and a poor prognosis. It is crucial to prevent asbestos exposure to avoid mesothelioma and its severe effects on patients and their families.
How is asbestos identified?
Specialized knowledge and tools are necessary to identify asbestos, as it is not easily visible to the naked eye. Asbestos fibers are microscopic and often mixed with other materials, making visual identification challenging. The most dependable way to identify asbestos-containing materials is through a professional inspection by a certified removal company like Homeguard Environmental Services in Newtown.
Trained professionals employ techniques such as visual assessment, bulk sampling, and laboratory analysis during asbestos testing to verify or dismiss the presence of asbestos. In a visual assessment, experts look for signs such as discoloration, texture, or installation practices that might indicate the presence of asbestos in building materials. Visual inspection, however, is not enough for a conclusive identification.
Bulk sampling is another crucial step in the identification process, where samples of suspected ACMs are collected for laboratory analysis. These samples are carefully extracted using specialized tools to minimize fiber release into the air. Once collected, the samples are sent to accredited laboratories for thorough and accurate testing using methods like Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) or Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM).
We also review building documentation, construction records, and maintenance history to gather information about potential asbestos use in the property. Past renovations or constructions can often reveal indications of ACMs. Client-reported concerns or observations about suspected asbestos materials are carefully considered. Customer input and awareness are valuable in guiding our inspection process and addressing specific areas of concern.
By combining visual assessments, material sampling, historical research, and client collaboration, we can accurately identify the presence of asbestos and provide our clients with comprehensive reports and recommendations for proper management or abatement if necessary. Proactive detection and measures are essential for occupant safety and reducing risks linked to asbestos exposure.
Due to the concealed characteristics of asbestos and associated health risks, professional inspections by certified asbestos removal services are essential for its precise identification and management. #s#This ensures that proper safety measures and abatement strategies are employed to protect individuals and the environment from asbestos exposure hazards.This
Insulation
Asbestos’s heat-resistant properties made it a popular choice for insulation materials like pipe insulation, attic insulation, and thermal boards.
Flooring
Asbestos-containing vinyl tiles and linoleum flooring were prevalent in older buildings.
Ceiling Tiles and Textured Coatings
For fireproofing, asbestos was incorporated into acoustic ceiling tiles and textured coatings.
Roofing Materials
Asbestos fibers may be present in some roofing materials, such as cement sheets or shingles.
Drywall and Joint Compound
Asbestos was also used in drywall and joint compound formulations before its health hazards were widely recognized.
What are the signs of an asbestos problem?
As a reliable Newtown asbestos removal service, Homeguard Environmental Services is often contacted by customers who have noticed certain signs that may indicate the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in their homes or buildings. Homeowners or property managers frequently request asbestos inspections when planning renovations, remodels, or repairs that involve disturbing older building materials. The age of the building is a crucial consideration, as asbestos was commonly utilized in construction materials before its health risks were fully recognized.
Structures built before the 1980s are more likely to contain ACMs, especially if they have not undergone significant renovations or updates since they were built. When homeowners or property managers suspect the presence of asbestos, they may notice specific signs that prompt them to seek professional inspections. Asbestos risk factors include:
Age of the Building
As we mentioned, buildings constructed before the 1980s are more likely to contain asbestos-based materials.
Previous Knowledge or Records
Sometimes, customers may have previous knowledge or records indicating the use of asbestos in building materials.
Planned Renovations or Disturbances
Planned renovations, remodeling, or repairs that involve disturbing walls, ceilings, flooring, or insulation can raise concerns about potential asbestos exposure.
Suspect Materials
Building materials commonly associated with asbestos use include insulation, textured coatings, vinyl flooring, and ceiling tiles.
What does the asbestos abatement process entail?
Safety and thoroughness are key when it comes to asbestos abatement. Our mission as a reputable asbestos removal company is to safeguard individuals and the environment from the hazards of asbestos exposure.
Let’s touch on the step-by-step process of asbestos abatement and how we safely remove and dispose of asbestos-containing materials to ensure a clean and healthy environment.
Project Confirmation and Preparation
Once the start date for an asbestos removal project is scheduled, we send an email confirmation and mail a packet containing essential information, including a letter of confirmation. We complete the necessary “Notification of Abatement” form with the State and pay the required filing fees to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Project Setup and Work Area Preparation
On the scheduled day, our technicians arrive between 8:15 and 9:00 AM. They begin by unloading equipment and supplies and setting up the decontamination chamber, which serves as the entrance and exit to the actual work area.
Negative Air Setup and Air Filtration
A microtrap, also known as a Negative Air Machine, is set up in the work area or adjacent to it. This sophisticated filtration device contains a HEPA filter that effectively captures asbestos fibers and other airborne particulates.
Initial Cleaning and Surface Preparation
All horizontal surfaces within the work space are meticulously cleaned using a HEPA vacuum, which filters out even the smallest particles.
Containment Setup and Abatement Process
The containment is established by covering all walls and floors with two layers of thick plastic sheeting.
Final Cleaning and Inspection
After all asbestos-containing materials are removed or encapsulated, all surfaces, plastic sheeting, and equipment are thoroughly cleaned.
Project Completion and Walkthrough
Once the area is cleared for re-occupancy, all plastic sheeting is removed, and a final cleaning is conducted.
How can asbestos be avoided?
As a Newtown asbestos remediation company dedicated to ensuring safety and well-being, we understand the importance of proactive measures when it comes to avoiding asbestos exposure.
For Homeowners:
Identify Potential Asbestos-Containing Materials
For homeowners, conducting an asbestos inspection is advisable if your home was built before the 1980s to identify potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). This inspection can help you determine if there are areas of concern that may require professional abatement.
Approach Renovations and Repairs with Caution
If you plan to renovate or perform repairs in your home – especially in areas where asbestos may be present, such as popcorn ceilings, vinyl flooring, or insulation – take precautions. Avoid disturbing suspected ACMs yourself and hire our professional asbestos abatement service in Newtown for safe removal or encapsulation.
Educate Yourself
Familiarize yourself with common ACMs and their locations in your home. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and take appropriate precautions to avoid exposure.
Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Schedule regular maintenance checks in areas prone to asbestos presence, such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Address any damaged or deteriorating materials promptly and consider periodic asbestos inspections to ensure home safety.
For Business Owners:
Asbestos Management Plan
Develop and implement an asbestos management plan for your commercial property. This plan should include identifying potential ACMs, conducting regular inspections, and establishing protocols for handling renovations or maintenance activities that may disturb asbestos-containing materials.
Employee Training
Provide training to employees who may encounter asbestos-containing materials during their work. Make sure they understand the risks associated with asbestos exposure and how to handle situations safely, such as avoiding disturbing ACMs, using proper protective equipment, and reporting suspicious materials promptly.
Work with Certified Professionals
When planning commercial projects involving asbestos-containing materials, work with our certified asbestos professionals. Our team can assess asbestos presence, perform necessary abatement or encapsulation work, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Regular Monitoring
Implement regular monitoring and air quality testing in areas where asbestos may be present or where abatement work has been conducted. This monitoring can detect potential issues and ensure a safe environment for employees and occupants.
By following these tips and being proactive about identifying and addressing asbestos risks, homeowners and business owners can significantly reduce the likelihood of asbestos exposure and create safer living and working environments.
Our Newtown asbestos abatement services include:
- Removal
- Encapsulation
- Pipe covering
- Boilers
- Furnaces
- Breeching
- Tank insulation
- Ductwork
- Repair
- Maintenance
- Asbestos roofing materials
- Asbestos siding materials
- Asbestos flooring
- Spray-on fireproofing
- Asbestos ceiling tiles
- Acoustical plasters
- Surface and in-air asbestos fiber decontamination
- Asbestos-in-soil decontamination
