Asbestos Testing
Serving Cook, Will, DuPage, & Kankakee Illinois
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos encompasses six unique silicate minerals which were heavily mined and processed into durable, slender fibers utilized in numerous applications. Celebrated for its resistance to fire, heat, corrosion, and chemicals, asbestos was once a staple in commercial and industrial sectors. It is now identified as a carcinogenic substance, presenting grave health threats, such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. In light of these dangers, evaluating your home or property for potential asbestos exposure is imperative.
When do I Need an Inspection? Our Professional Inspection & Testing Process
When a homeowner, landlord, or contractor initiates any activity that involves remodeling, demolishing, repairing, or disturbing materials potentially containing asbestos, it's imperative to conduct an asbestos inspection. Unfortunately, the urgency of such inspections is frequently recognized only later in the project's timeline. Consulting a certified IDPH inspector is paramount. Their specialized knowledge can help reduce abatement costs and provide an in-depth report, guaranteeing that the project advances safely and complies with all relevant legal and regulatory standards.
Asbestos has been extensively used in various building materials over the years. Recognizing potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) is crucial for both safety and regulatory compliance.
Here are some common building materials that could potentially contain asbestos:
- Resilient Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles and sheet flooring, especially those manufactured before the 1980s, might contain asbestos fibers.
- Popcorn Ceiling: The textured finish often used on ceilings, commonly known as "popcorn" or "cottage cheese" ceiling, may contain asbestos, particularly in older homes.
- Vermiculite Insulation: Used for attic insulation in many older homes, vermiculite can sometimes be contaminated with asbestos.
- Pipe Wrap: Asbestos-containing pipe insulation was frequently used in older buildings to insulate pipes for heating, cooling, and plumbing.
- Drywall Mud: Some joint compounds or "muds" used for sealing and finishing drywall contain asbestos.
- Ceiling Tile: Older acoustic ceiling tiles, particularly those with a rough, sand-like texture, might contain asbestos.
- Slate Siding: Some older buildings may have slate siding tiles that contain asbestos.
- Insulation Board: Used for various insulation purposes in buildings, insulation boards might contain asbestos.
- Window Glazing Putty: The putty used to seal window glass to frames, especially in older windows, might contain asbestos fibers.
- Fireplace Door Insulation: Asbestos was used in fireplace doors and other high-temperature applications for its fire-resistant properties.
- Roofing Materials: Some roofing shingles, especially older ones, may contain asbestos.
Prioritize your well-being and trust Precision Environmental Services, Inc. for testing & Inspection Services.
Our Professional Inspection & Testing Process
An IDPH licensed inspector from Precision Environmental Services Inc. will help you to determine the appropriate sampling plan and protocol to ensure that you protect yourself from health impacts and liabilities, without wasting money on abating unnecessary materials. We would be happy to discuss your project and come up with a plan that satisfies the legal and health obligations without excessive costs and fees.