At AboutMechanics, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
How is Asbestos Removed?
Asbestos is a group of fibers, both natural and man-made, that were widely used prior to mid-1970s to insulate buildings, prepare roof shingles and dry walls, and for the installation of cement pipes and floor tiles. While asbestos is still part of construction materials, certain fibers are no longer being used because of their highly porous consistency that makes them more likely to be inhaled.
Removal of asbestos is essential to prevent a number of serious respiratory problems. Because asbestos can be inhaled and remain in the lungs for several years, it can lead to anything from shortness of breath and coughing to lung cancer and even death.
It is essential to remove asbestos from a building to protect the health of people living or working there. Asbestos removal is also the legal responsibility of the owner of the building, and can only be done by licensed asbestos abatement contractors. Once a building owner identifies the presence of asbestos, he should try and have it removed as soon as possible.
Asbestos can be removed by a number of different methods, although controlled wet stripping is the preferred way because it controls the amount of dust released into the environment during removal. Dry stripping is another popular method for the removal of asbestos because it is inexpensive and relatively easy to do. However, dry stripping is not recommended in most cases because it produces a high level of dust.
If removing the asbestos is not feasible, it is also possible to seal it up so that it does not enter the environment. Sealing is sometimes preferred over the removal because it is quicker and produces less dust. The fibers can be sealed up with paneling or through the use of PVC adhesive or a bitumastic paint. Wallpaper and hardboard panels can also be used to seal asbestos in as long as a strong adhesive is applied.
Whenever someone is attempting to remove asbestos, workers should wear protective masks and label the area so passers-by are warned about potential risks. If homeowners thinks they have asbestos in their home, they should always contact a certified contractor to check the building and confirm these findings.
Discussion Comments
A good post, and I would consider also asking about the safety steps that go into the job, not just the price quoted. This site seems to have some good info.
I was looking for some asbestos removal sites to find out more about these kinds of materials and the procedures too. Still after reading your article, it really helps.
I am a licensed asbestos consultant, and I can say this is very a informative article. People need to be educated.
just a guess, but maybe negative pressure means that they use a vacuum-like system to suck the asbestos away?
When a person says that asbestos is always removed under negative pressure, what does this mean?
This article is entirely inside out. I've been researching asbestos and abatement, and even the American Lung Association (not to mention all the federal agencies that regulate asbestos) say removal is the remedy of last resort, enclosure or encapsulation being absolutely preferred (although eventually it will have to be removed).
Also, there's a whole lot more to removal than touched on here. It's a very dangerous proposition, and someone taking the brief advice in this article could wind up badly exposed, their whole home contaminated, and in violation of numerous state and local laws. This is pretty irresponsible.
Post your comments