Q: How long does asbestos testing take?

• <div><p>Asbestos testing takes place in two stages&mdash;collection and lab testing. Collection can take less than 20 minutes if a professional manages to get a direct sample. If air samples are required, then the pro will set up a testing device and return to collect it. In both cases, the sample is sent to a lab and results are confirmed or denied usually within one to two days. </p></div>

Q: How can I save money on asbestos removal?

• <div><p>Since DIY asbestos removal isn&rsquo;t the best option to save money, there are other steps that you can take to help cut costs when dealing with this project. After speaking with your asbestos removal expert, discuss if encapsulation is an option. If it is, you can save between <b>15% to 25%</b> on overall project costs over demolition and disposal. In addition, when speaking with your professional, discuss if there are any tax credits available for your removal project. Finally, check with your homeowner&rsquo;s insurance to see if any removal costs might be covered. However, be aware that this is usually only applicable if the asbestos is due to a covered incident, like a tree falling into your roof. </p></div>

Question 1

What are the health risks if I’m exposed to asbestos tiles?

Accepted Answer

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Damaged tiles can release asbestos fibers into the air. Anyone in the surrounding area who may inhale the fibers will have them settled in the lining of internal organs. Over time, it may lead to serious health conditions such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.

The only safe way to prevent these conditions is to avoid exposure to asbestos at all costs, even for a short period of time.

Question 2

How do I locate where the smell is coming from?

Accepted Answer

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While a professional can always help, there are some common plumbing culprits you can check yourself to see if you can find the sewer gas smell. For example, you should check your water traps, sometimes called P-traps and S-traps, which are located under sink, shower, and laundry drains. The wax ring beneath the base of your toilet, which creates a watertight seal with the plumbing, could also have gone bad.

Question 3

How long does asbestos testing take?

Accepted Answer

•

Asbestos testing takes place in two stages—collection and lab testing. Collection can take less than 20 minutes if a professional manages to get a direct sample. If air samples are required, then the pro will set up a testing device and return to collect it. In both cases, the sample is sent to a lab and results are confirmed or denied usually within one to two days.

Question 4

How do professionals test for other toxic materials in a home?

Accepted Answer

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Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to detect asbestos, radon, and VOCs.

Question 5

How can I save money on asbestos removal?

Accepted Answer

•

Since DIY asbestos removal isn’t the best option to save money, there are other steps that you can take to help cut costs when dealing with this project. After speaking with your asbestos removal expert, discuss if encapsulation is an option. If it is, you can save between 15% to 25% on overall project costs over demolition and disposal. In addition, when speaking with your professional, discuss if there are any tax credits available for your removal project. Finally, check with your homeowner’s insurance to see if any removal costs might be covered. However, be aware that this is usually only applicable if the asbestos is due to a covered incident, like a tree falling into your roof.