Indianapolis Residential Asbestos Testing and Abatement
Asbestos is a mineral fiber present in many different types of materials such as thermal insulation, fireproofing, shingles, ceiling tiles, adhesives, flooring tile, and other materials around the home. Asbestos is most dangerous when it is broken or cracked and turns into dust particles. These dust particles can enter your lungs and lead to health problems such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Aegis Environmental can provide the following services related to asbestos:
- Home-inspections
- Air monitoring and analysis
- Clearance sampling
- Laboratory testing
- Abatement supervision
FAQs About Asbestos Testing & Abatement
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals made up of thin, microscopic fibers. Asbestos offers heat and chemical resistance, fireproofing, and strength; because of this asbestos was often used in construction before 1981. However, even today, some materials contain asbestos, although the use has dramatically decreased.
How can I tell if I have asbestos in my floor tiles or ceiling tiles or wrapped around pipes?
The only way to be certain whether a building material contains asbestos is to have it tested.
What is vermiculite?
Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that expands when heated. Technically, vermiculite is a hydrated magnesium iron aluminum silicate mineral. Pieces of vermiculite are brownish-gold to black and are about ½ inch in size. Pieces of vermiculite appear to be multi-layered. Vermiculite is sometimes used in building insulation, potting soil, and fertilizer. Not all vermiculite contains asbestos; however, some products do contain vermiculite- containing asbestos. Vermiculite was mined in Libby, Montana, from the 1920s until the mine closed in 1990. While in operation, the Libby mine produced most of the world’s supply of vermiculite. Unfortunately, the Libby mine’s vermiculite contained a type of asbestos called tremolite-actinolite, which is a cause for concern.
What should I do if I suspect asbestos or vermiculite is present?
It would be best if you left the pipes or tiles, etc., alone and have a licensed inspector assess the area in question. The best practice is to assume the vermiculite contains asbestos and leave it alone. Most likely, the inspector will take samples and send them to a lab for testing. Then you will know for sure what materials you are dealing with in your home.
How much will that cost?
The cost is about $250.00 to $300.00 for a licensed inspector to come to your home and assess suspected- material. Asbestos tests are approximately $30.00 each, and vermiculite testing is roughly $180.00 per test.
