Asbestos Testing in Hamilton

Asbestos testing in Dundas, Hamilton, Burlington, Grimsby, Stoney creek

Testing fees:

Sample taken during a home inspection: $75. Additional samples are $45

Sample taken without a home inspection: $150. Additional samples are $45

Q- What is Asbestos?

A- Asbestos is found in many household items and building materials, such as cement shingles, plaster walls & ceilings, heating pipe wrap, forced air furnace duct work, vermiculite insulation and so on.

Asbestos can lead to lung cancer if it is in your home and disturbed. The material could also be damaged and become friable, which basically means it will allow the tiny asbestos fibers to be distributed throughout the homes ventilation, such as furnace or air conditioning and well as natural air currents. If you are selling or buying a home and the home inspection reveals possible asbestos containing materials, such as those listed above, you should find out if it is a hazard or not. Not all vermiculite insulation contains asbestos and nearly all hot water boiler pipe wrap does. The only way to know is to have the material tested through a qualified and accredited laboratory.

Does your attic contain vermiculite insulation? Some vermiculite insulation used has been found to contain asbestos but we can help you

find out. Our inspector will enter your attic and carefully take samples, which are then sent to a qualified laboratory to be tested for asbestos. Once the results are generated, you are emailed the results. Maybe you have an older shingle style siding, that often contained asbestos, or the white cloth-like material around the vent boots on the first floor? If you are presently selling or plan to sell your home in the near future, this could become a stumbling block in your deal. Whether positive or negative, it is better to know now rather than possibly lose a deal over it. Allow us to help you find out for sure.

Q- What does Vermiculite look like?

A- Vermiculite came in various shapes and sizes, but the following photo may be of assistance:

Q- What if Vermiculite is discovered in the attic?

A- There is a chance that it does not contain asbestos and is therefore not considered a health risk. However, this can only be determined through proper testing by a laboratory.

Q- Does it have to be removed?

A- Not necessarily. Some sources state that if left undisturbed, there is no real immediate risk and therefore could be left in place. However, everyone has different thresholds for what they find acceptable and if this was desired, then you would contact a qualified removal company to have the vermiculite taken out and new insulation installed.

Q- How do I get it tested?

A- We will take samples following health & safety protocols and deliver them to an accredited laboratory for results. 

Results are often ready in 48-72 hours. 

CALL TODAY TO BOOK A SAMPLING APPOINTMENT: (905) 929-4401

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