A Renovation Journey.
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By Masha Koyen
A common decision for homeowners starting renovations is to DIY as much of the project as possible. While this is a great way to cut costs, it could lead to hidden dangers like asbestos exposure.
In our continuing Ready.Set.Reno! project series we’ve partnered with a team of top renovation experts to help make your life easier — and safer. Here we look at why it’s so important for well-intentioned weekend warriors to put safety first by having key materials in the home tested before you begin demolition.
Risk factors for asbestos
In 1981, the Canadian government introduced regulations to reduce the use of asbestos in homes. If your home was built before 1981 there is a much higher risk of finding asbestos and other toxic materials. However, even homes built as late as 1990 could have asbestos. For example, it was still being used in some popcorn ceilings at that time.
Releasing asbestos fibers
Asbestos is only dangerous when disturbed, as it would be during a renovation. It is made up of tiny invisible fibers that are released into the air during the demolition process. The fibers are cancerous and can remain in the air for up to 72 hours. Once the fibers settle, they are released into the air repeatedly.
Jason Campbell, Project Manager at Green Life Restoration Services, certified expert in asbestos removal, says a “N95 mask is not enough protection. Inhaling even a few particles, can be harmful to your health.”
Where is asbestos commonly found?
In addition to popcorn ceilings, asbestos can be present in a number of different materials in your home including:
- Floor and ceiling tiles
- Cement and plaster
- Insulation in walls, floors, and ceilings as well as around pipes and ducts
- Exterior siding and roof tiles
Asbestos Environmental of Canada will conduct a thorough inspection of your home and take samples of these materials. Only a professional has the training to determine whether or not you have a problem, and if you do, just how bad it is.
Lab testing for asbestos
The samples go to a lab for testing and a comprehensive Designated Substance Survey Report is created. The DSS report will list any toxic substances discovered in your home including:
- Asbestos
- Lead
- Mercury
- Silica
- Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
You’ll know what materials to avoid and can arrange for professionals to manage safe removal.
“Without proper testing before your project’s start date, you put yourself and your crew not only at risk of exposure to hazardous materials but you risk having your job shut down by the ministry and incurring additional costs, having to put all contractors on hold until testing can be completed, a DSS report issued and possible asbestos materials removed appropriately,” says Victoria Grimshaw, Senior Administrative Assistant at Asbestos Environmental of Canada.
Discovery of asbestos
From the outset it was important for us to ensure a safe environment for our Ready.Set.Reno! construction crew. We first arranged for Asbestos Environmental of Canada to inspect and test materials throughout the home to identify any risk. The DSS report for the project indicated only minimal asbestos was found, in both the basement floor tiles and register wrap throughout — both common the period of the home. Fortunately, no other toxic substances were discovered within other common culprits like plaster, attic insulation or ceiling tiles.
Why asbestos testing is a must
Substances like asbestos can cause serious long-term health effects including increased risk for cancer. The older your home, the higher the probability of unknowingly releasing toxins while you work. But it’s not just older homes that can put you at risk.
"A misconception is that asbestos is only found in old homes. In Canada, it has been used in all kinds of building material up until the 1980's when the government started restricting its use. But there were still a lot of products already in stock that were being sold years later. Considering it can be found in drywall, plaster, caulking, tiles, insulation, roofing, and other materials, before any demo is done, it is important to get a substance report of your home. That way if there is anything hazardous, you can protect yourself and anyone working in it," adds Jason Campbell.
Testing experts like Asbestos Environmental of Canada know what materials are likely to contain asbestos. They will safely take samples for testing and provide your DSS report.
It’s too late to take precautions once you agitate and release asbestos fibers into the air during the demolition phase of your renovation. Take the right first steps to protect you, your family, and trades by arranging for asbestos testing before the work begins.
Watch for the project Website and YouTube channel coming soon! ready-set-reno.ca
Masha Koyen is the Founder of Content Vertical, Copywriting and Content Strategy for the Design-Build industry.