What Is the Difference Between Mold Remediation and Asbestos Removal?

 

An indoor safe environment is crucial for homeowners, landlords and commercial property managers alike. Older buildings can present problems with mold and asbestos, especially when water leaks or issues exist, building materials are worn out and need to be replaced, or the building has experienced renovations. Weather, humid summers, excessive rain in the summer and winter freeze-thaw cycles can all be factors in moisture problems in New York buildings. Appropriate risk assessment by a professional and the right remediation can help property owners solve these problems, keep their people safe and keep their buildings intact.

 

It is usual to find mold growing where there is a leak, condensation, flooding or poor ventilation. Poorly ventilated utility rooms, crawl spaces, bathrooms and basements are particularly vulnerable. If exposed areas of porous materials, such as drywall, insulation and ceiling tiles are not dried quickly, fungal growth can develop after moisture enters the material. Certain molds may exacerbate allergies and/or breathing sensitivity and prolonged moisture can cause material degradation. Discoloration or house cleaners may not be effective in fixing the problem.

 

A Mold Removal Company in NY can be of assistance in determining the source of moisture and deciding what the best way to remediate mold is. Professional mold remediation can include moisture mapping, creating containment barriers, using negative air pressure, using HEPA air cleaning and removing surfaces that cannot be properly cleaned. Technicians also do ventilation and water intrusion testing to aid in prevention of recurrence. Other long-term prevention measures include repairing plumbing leaks, enhancing air flow and keeping the humidity level in the home within the proper range.

 

With asbestos, it's a different scenario. Historically used in various products used in construction, due to its heat resistance and durability. Asbestos can be found in the pipe insulation, boiler covers, floor tiles, roofing materials, textured coating and more in older buildings in New York. The potential for release of these materials may be low if they are not disturbed and left in place. Cutting, sanding, drilling, demolition or deterioration, however, may be causes of releasing microscopic asbestos fibers into the air. Exposures to airborne fibers can lead to serious health effects, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.

 

Owners of older homes, apartment buildings or commercial properties should find out if there are materials that are suspected of having led if the property is to be renovated. An Asbestos Removal Company in NY can handle suitable testing, testing by certified professionals, and abatement methodology (if required). To achieve controls, regulated work areas, special protective equipment, negative pressure enclosures, HEPA filtration and waste packaging may be used, depending on the type of material and project. All federal, New York State and local requirements must be met, and clearance may be required following an abatement.

 

The following precautions are especially important in New York, where old, pre-war apartment buildings, historic brownstones, aging public facilities, and older commercial buildings can contain "legacy" building materials. Concealed hazards may be behind walls, under flooring or around mechanical systems and may be disturbed during renovation projects. The following are suggestions to follow by property owners to avoid disturbing suspected asbestos or to never assume that visible mold or damaged insulation can be safely dealt with without an assessment:

 

Property owners looking for professional help can contact NY Lead Abatement Corp for the environmental hazard-related services designed to help alleviate concerns related to older building materials and inside air. To find out more about the services they offer, check out nylead.com and speak with them about what's best to do for your property. Early assessment, safe work practices and consideration of the root cause of a problem can contribute to safer buildings and good renovation practices.