Affordable Asbestos Removal in Devon

Asbestos is a natural mineral that has been used since the late 1800s due to its heat-resistant properties, durability, and resistance to chemical reaction. It was commonly used in building materials such as insulation, roofing, and flooring until the 1970s when it was discovered that the mineral can cause severe damage to human health. The UK has since then banned the use of asbestos, but buildings that were built before the 1980s may contain asbestos.

Asbestos is a serious health risk, and its removal should not be taken lightly. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is an asbestos removal company in Devon, South West England, committed to providing high-quality and affordable asbestos removal services to homes and businesses in the area.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a natural mineral that has been used for many applications due to its fireproof, heat-resistant, and insulating properties. It was commonly used in building materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and pipes until it was discovered that asbestos can cause severe health problems.

There are six common types of asbestos, including chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite. Chrysotile, also known as white asbestos, is the most commonly used type of asbestos in the UK.

Asbestos Removal

Asbestos removal is the process of identifying, assessing, and removing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) from a building or structure. The removal process must be carried out by a licensed asbestos removal company, and the operation must follow strict health and safety regulations to avoid the release of asbestos fibers into the air, which can cause severe lung diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

Asbestos removal companies in the UK typically charge between 40 to 80 per square meter for asbestos removal. However, the total cost of asbestos removal depends on several factors, such as the size of the project, the type of asbestos-containing material, the accessibility of the site, and the level of contamination.

Asbestos-Containing Materials

Asbestos-containing materials are building materials that contain asbestos fibers. Here are the most common materials that contain asbestos:

Insulating Board

Insulating board is a type of material that is commonly found in ceilings, walls, and floors. It is made of asbestos fibers and can release fibers into the air when disturbed or damaged.

Pipe Insulation

Asbestos pipe insulation was a common application for asbestos use in the past. The insulation is used to protect pipes and boilers from heat transfer, and it can release asbestos fibers when disturbed or damaged.

Soffit Boards

Soffit boards are used to provide ventilation to roofs or walls. They are commonly made of asbestos fibers and can release fibers into the air when disturbed or damaged.

Vinyl Tiles

Vinyl tiles were commonly produced with asbestos fibers before the 1980s. The tiles can release fibers into the air when they are removed or damaged.

Cement Sheets

Cement sheets were commonly used in roofing and sidings. They are made of asbestos fibers and can release fibers into the air when they are broken or damaged.

Asbestos Removal Process

Asbestos removal is a complex process that must adhere to strict health and safety regulations. Here are the steps involved in the asbestos removal process:

Inspection

The first step in asbestos removal is inspection. A licensed asbestos removal company will inspect your property to identify asbestos-containing materials and provide a detailed report of their findings.

Risk Assessment

Once the inspection is complete, the asbestos removal company will perform a risk assessment to determine the level of asbestos contamination and create a work plan for the removal process.

Preparation

Before starting the removal process, the asbestos removal company will prepare the site. This includes sealing off the work area, setting up a decontamination area, and ensuring that the site is well-ventilated.

Removal

The next step is the actual removal of the asbestos-containing materials. The materials are carefully removed and placed in labeled containers.

Disposal

Asbestos-containing materials must be disposed of as hazardous waste. The asbestos removal company will transport the hazardous waste to a licensed facility for disposal.

Asbestos Removal Cost

The cost of asbestos removal depends on several factors, such as the size of the project, the type of asbestos-containing material, the accessibility of the site, and the level of contamination. Asbestos removal companies in the UK typically charge between 40 to 80 per square meter for asbestos removal.

The total cost of asbestos removal for a residential property can cost between 1,000 and 3,000, while the removal of asbestos from a commercial property can cost between 10,000 and 50,000, depending on the size of the building and the level of contamination.

Damaged Asbestos

If asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, they can release asbestos fibers into the air, which can cause severe health risks. If you suspect that asbestos-containing materials in your home or building have been damaged or disturbed, you should contact a licensed asbestos removal company immediately.

Demolition

If you are planning to demolish a building that may contain asbestos, you must hire a licensed asbestos removal company to conduct an asbestos survey and remove any asbestos-containing materials before demolition. Failure to do so can result in a hefty fine or even imprisonment.

Conclusion

Asbestos is a serious health risk, and its removal should not be taken lightly. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a licensed asbestos removal company in Devon, South West England, committed to providing high-quality and affordable asbestos removal services to homes and businesses in the area.

If you suspect that your property contains asbestos, contact us at 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] for a free asbestos survey and quote. Our team of certified professionals will ensure that your property is asbestos-free, safe, and ready for use. Visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information.