Asbestos Testing

Services in Broomfield, Westminster, Boulder CO, and surrounding areas.

WHAT IS ASBESTOS?

Asbestos is a natural occurring mineral that was used in a great variety of products especially in the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, and even today still sneaks its way through imported products. Asbestos products were banned in 1978, however; there was a phase out period where companies could sell the rest of the asbestos containing products.

WHERE IS ASBESTOS FOUND?

There are 3 classifications of asbestos containing materials: Surfacing, Thermal System Insulator (TSI), and Miscellaneous materials. Its commonly found in products like joint compound, texture, plaster, linoleum/sheet flooring, floor tile, duct or boiler pipe wrapping, siding, insulation and thousands more.

HOW IS ASBESTOS TESTED?

Certified IAQ can help the asbestos testing process be quick and thorough. If the material you plan on removing is not metal, glass, solid wood, or fiberglass (regardless of the of year of construction) it should be tested before any demolition or remodel. The number of samples needed for asbestos testing will vary based on different material types, classification, and square footage.

Contact Reliable Professionals

Asbestos causes mesothelioma and lung cancer so keep your family or clients safe by calling Certified IAQ for your free phone consultation and quote. We are efficient and do everything we can to improve your indoor air quality. We also offer free consultations to give you the resources you need to protect your home.

Call us today at 303-995-7015 to talk about our asbestos testing services for Broomfield, Boulder, Arvada, Westminster, CO and surrounding areas.

Asbestos Tiles

Asbestos Coating

Asbestos Panels

Frequently asked Questions

If my home was built after 1978 do I still have to worry about asbestos?

Regardless of the year of construction, you should test your home before doing any demolition. Contrary to what everyone believes not all asbestos-containing products were banned in 1978. There was also a phase-out period where companies were allowed to sell the rest of their asbestos-containing products which were believed to have taken up to 10 years if not more. Many products today that contain asbestos still find their way in through importation from countries with fewer asbestos regulations.

Is all asbestos dangerous?

Asbestos is dangerous when it is damaged. If the home has damage such as crumbling drywall, insulation falling apart, water damage to popcorn ceiling, or any visible damage then you want to test for asbestos. If you are planning to remodel your home which will cause disturbance to the building materials you want to test for asbestos.

If there is no materials damaged in the home and nothing is being disturbed you do not need to have your home tested for asbestos. Material that is in good condition and will not be disturbed should be left alone.

Can I do my own testing?

Yes, you may do your own testing, but keep in mind if you are going to need abatement you will need a state-certified inspection report to provide to the abatement company. Many labs will charge high walk-in prices and you may be able to obtain a report with a certified inspector for a similar price.

How many samples will I need?

Sampling numbers will depend on how many different types of material will need to be sampled, the classification of each material, as well as the amount of square footage.

What are sample classifications and state required minimums?

There are 3 classifications: Surfacing, Thermal System Insulator (TSI), and Miscellaneous materials.

Surfacing:

Any material that can be spray or trowel applied. This would include plaster, stucco, joint compound, wall and ceiling texture, popcorn ceiling texture, block fill, and more.

These materials require 3 samples from 1-1000 Sqft of material, 5 samples from 1000-5000 Sqft of material, and 7 samples from 5000+ Sqft.

Thermal System Insulator (TSI):

Boiler pipe, duct wrap, duct tape, boiler pipe insulation, basically anything insulating a heating source.

These materials require a minimum of 3 samples from each area, as well as 1 sample from each patched area that is less than 6 Sqft.

Miscellaneous:

Floor tile, Linoleum, Mastic/Glue, Ceiling Tile, Insulation, Siding, Window Glazing, Roofing Materials, basically anything that is not surfacing or TSI.

These materials require a minimum of 2 samples from each area or layer.

Please keep in mind these are all minimums and ultimately it is up to the inspector to pull the amount of sampling sufficient to determine whether the material is asbestos-containing or not.