Asbestos Insulation Removal Austin Texas

Over the years, asbestos insulation was commonly installed in Austin area homes. However, when asbestos insulation ages and becomes damaged over time, it can pose serious health risks to homeowners. Removing old asbestos insulation is crucial before installing new, high-performance insulation that will make your Austin, Texas home comfortable and efficient. This guide covers the dangers of asbestos exposure, explains the asbestos removal process, finding reputable removal professionals like ARBA, and next steps after completing your insulation upgrade project.

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    Introduction

    Asbestos insulation was frequently used in central Texas homes built before the 1980s. Over time, asbestos insulation can settle and become less effective—allowing heat to escape your Austin area home. Damaged or deteriorating asbestos can also release toxic fibers into your home’s air. Exposure to these asbestos fibers can cause lung diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis. Before installing new spray foam or fiberglass insulation, it’s essential to have old asbestos insulation safely removed from your attic, walls, or crawlspace. Hiring certified professionals is key, as asbestos removal risks can include stirring up lung-damaging fibers or further damaging your home. This guide covers why asbestos abatement is crucial before installing new insulation, what to look for in an Austin asbestos removal company, the step-by-step removal process, and properly maintaining your home’s air quality after asbestos remediation.

    Why Remove Asbestos Insulation in Austin, Tx?

    There are three key reasons it’s vital to remove aging asbestos insulation:

    Health Hazards of Asbestos Exposure

    Breathing in asbestos fibers over time is extremely hazardous to your health. Asbestos fibers can cause fatal respiratory diseases like mesothelioma—a rare form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs. The carcinogen has also been linked to lung cancer, asbestosis, and other chronic lung ailments. Removing damaged asbestos insulation mitigates this danger to homeowners and protects your family’s health.

    Asbestos Lowers Home Efficiency

    Over time, insulating effectiveness diminishes as asbestos insulation settles and becomes compacted. Gaps form that allow heat transfer into and out of your home. Higher energy bills result as your HVAC system works harder to maintain comfort. Removing settled asbestos enables proper insulation density during new spray foam or fiberglass installation.

    Prepare Home for New Insulation

    Eliminating old insulation makes way for new, upgraded insulation like closed cell spray foam which brings far better insulating value per inch. Gone will be the days of sweltering Austin attics. Sealing air leaks during asbestos removal also sets the stage for optimal efficiency.

    Hiring Asbestos Abatement Professionals

    Asbestos removal is a complex process requiring safety precautions, specialized equipment, and proper disposal protocol. Trusting an uncertified contractor puts homeowners at risk. Use these tips when hiring an Austin asbestos removal company:

    Dangers of DIY Asbestos Removal

    Handling asbestos yourself without proper training brings considerable risk. Disturbing insulation may unleash asbestos fibers that infiltrate home air ducts. Further, you may unknowingly track fibers into other areas of your home during removal. Prevent this by hiring professionals with containment equipment, personal protective equipment, and asbestos vacuum bags for proper disposal.

    Licenses and Certifications to Look For

    The EPA requires asbestos handlers to obtain certification showing they were formally trained in safe removal practices. Look for companies certified by the Texas Department of State Health Services. Reputable services like Hand Made Remodeling, Rego Pro Services, and Infinity Water Restoration have passed rigorous EPA asbestos inspection.

    Asbestos Removal Equipment

    Air filtration devices like heavy-duty HEPA vacuum systems and negative air pressure machines properly catch stray fibers and residues during removal. Contractors must also wear full protective coverings over their bodies. Verify an Austin company has these assets before hiring.

    Asbestos Insulation Removal Process Step-by-Step

    When performed properly by trained professionals, asbestos removal prevents toxic exposures. The thorough abatement process includes:

    Inspection and Testing

    Before removal, a sample of insulation materials gets sent to a lab to confirm asbestos content. Some newer materials may not contain this carcinogen. Testing first avoids unnecessary work.

    Isolation and Containment Preparation

    Crews seal off the attic or work area from the rest of the home with plastic sheeting and duct tape. This helps prevent fibers from spreading past the containment zone. Workers may also cover surfaces like floors and furniture.

    Friable Asbestos Removal

    A wetting agent gets misted over asbestos to minimize airborne particles. Insulation and contaminated materials carefully get removed. Asbestos vacuum equipment draws up debris as workers package everything for proper disposal.

    Final Cleaning and Clearance

    Surfaces get wiped down and HEPA vacuumed before plastic barriers get removed. Final air testing verifies the area tests below legal thresholds for lingering fibers. The removal area is now safe for insulation installation like spray foam or fiberglass.

    Next Steps After Asbestos Abatement

    After eliminating asbestos from your Austin area home, take these next actions:

    Air Sealing and Insulation Upgrade

    Sealing air leaks makes a home more energy efficient and prepared for new insulation. Top Austin insulation companies like Green Collar Operations or Dumpster Dogs install high-quality fiberglass or spray foam.

    Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality

    Keep fresh air circulating to further reduce lingering fibers. High-grade filters in HVAC systems also promote healthy indoor air. Consider adding ventilation systems to regulate humidity and introduce fresh outdoor air.

    Documentation and Waste Disposal

    Reputable asbestos removal professionals provide documentation showing your home passed final clearance testing. They also properly dispose of asbestos waste to registered facilities. Obtain these records for your protection.

    Conclusion

    In older Austin homes, deteriorating asbestos insulation can release harmful fibers and drive up energy costs due to poor temperature regulation. By hiring reputable professionals certified in safe handling methods, homeowners can securely remove hazardous asbestos prior to installing new spray foam or fiberglass insulation. Be sure to vet a contractor’s licenses, equipment, containment procedures and air testing. Focus on companies specializing in asbestos abatement with solid references.

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      After eliminating this carcinogen, adopt ongoing ventilation and air filtration practices. Refer to this guide when planning your home’s insulation upgrade and removal project. Contact ARAT when you’re ready to make your Austin area home comfortable and efficient safely.