How the Asbestos Removal Process Works

Although the production of asbestos has been outlawed in the United States since the 1980s, it still remains a problem for many people with older homes and buildings. Asbestos-containing building materials (ACBMs) were a popular component of many construction projects. In fact, some of the most common ACBMs include:

• Flooring
• Insulation Material
• Fireproofing Material
• Roofing Products
• Wall & Ceiling Materials
• Adhesives

Since asbestos is a known carcinogen, it’s important that property owners contact a professional if they suspect their building may contain ACBMs. These experts know the most effective process for safely and effectively completing an asbestos removal. Marietta, GA locals should keep reading to learn more about how the process works.

Creating a Custom Plan

The very first thing that a reliable technician will do is create a customized plan. No two asbestos removal projects are the same. They each come with their own unique challenges, so it’s important that the crew be able to adapt to each situation.

A trained asbestos removal contractor will not only work out a plan to effectively treat the area, but they will also ensure that each step complies with any local, state, or federal laws. During the planning phase, they will also communicate all information to the homeowners so that they will understand just how the area will be treated from the prep phase to the final cleanup.

Marking the Hazardous Area

After the contractors have established a clear plan for the asbestos removal, Marietta, GA residents may be asked to leave the area. The contractors will spend the first part of the process going through the building and clearly marking the area as a hazardous zone. 

If there are multiple occupants, they will also inform everyone in the building that the asbestos removal is taking place. From there, all occupants will be advised to leave the area. They should not return until the project has been completed and test results indicate that the building is clear of any asbestos.

Identify All Materials Containing Asbestos

Next, the professionals will go through the entire building and take the time to identify any ACBMs. They will complete this step by testing a variety of materials for asbestos. Not only will they check the ceilings, walls, and flooring, but they will also check any insulation, other finishes, and more. It is important that they are thorough with this step so that they don’t miss any materials that could potentially contain asbestos.

Set up Regulated Area

Before they can actually begin to remove the materials that tested positive for asbestos, they need to contain the area. This is done by sealing all air ducts and disabling the HVAC system. If there are areas that don’t require treatment, they will seal them off with a thick plastic sheet and utilize air pressure differential and filtration. 

Remove Materials

When they finally begin the asbestos removal, Marietta, GA technicians do the proper protective equipment and start to use their hand tools. Wet methods are also a popular way of removing or repairing any ACBMs. The materials that are removed during this process are placed into special disposal bags that can be sealed and sent through a decontamination unit.

Use HEPA Vacuum

The contractors will then use a special vacuum that contains a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. These filters are designed to remove small, harmful particles by forcing air through a fine mesh. With this filter, the contractors can minimize the disbursement of asbestos fibers while they are removing materials and cleaning surfaces.

Complete Final Cleaning

Though HEPA vacuums are used throughout the asbestos removal, Marietta, GA homeowners can expect that the contractors will finish up with one final vacuuming. They will also use different wet methods to clean any and all surfaces in the work area.

After they have ensured that the entire area has been cleaned, the professionals will have another inspection completed. This may be done by an independent firm that can complete clearance air sampling based on the government’s regulations of asbestos removal. When the test results indicate that the area is clear of any asbestos particles, the contractors can finally remove all of their work area containment barriers and filtration systems. 

Learn More About Asbestos Removal Services in Marietta, GA

Home or building owners who are interested in learning more about the process shouldn’t hesitate to contact R Squared Restoration & Remodeling. Their professionals have plenty of experience and can complete a safe and effective asbestos removal. Marietta, GA residents can call the company to request an inspection, or they can submit the simple online contact form for more information on their process and pricing.