At first it seems like a simple project, you may want to replace some windows, repair a soft spot in a floor, or replace plaster with drywall… Of course, as we all know, what seems like a simple project at first can quickly get complicated. Do you need to be concerned about possible Asbestos? Lead? Mold? Water?
How do you know?
Asbestos
Being a very common component of building materials for decades, Asbestos is likely the most common hazard you may find in your home during a remodel. Beyond some Common Areas You May Find Asbestos, it was also commonly used in acoustical popcorn ceiling treatments, roofing material, siding, and in some cases plaster. Please note that this is far from a complete list, and materials require laboratory testing to determine whether a material contains Asbestos or not. In many states, including Pennsylvania, Asbestos Abatement companies are required to be properly trained and licensed with the state, ensuring the work is done properly and by knowledgeable personnel. Disaster Blaster is proud to be licensed in Asbestos Abatement (License #: C0693A ) and happy to assist you should you have an Asbestos related concern.
Lead
Most commonly found in paints prior to 1978, Lead was added to add color and improve the durability and coverage of the paint. Should your home have been painted prior to this date, it likely contains some Lead based paints. As the paint ages and begins to chip or turn to dust, it becomes a concern as a breathing or ingestion hazard. Children should particularly not be allowed to come in contact with Lead paints as they tend to put their hands and objects in their mouths. In order to determine if paint contains Lead, a test is required to be performed on all layers of paint on a surface. As it is common for different areas of a room and house to be painted at different times and with different paint, it is recommended that all painted surfaces be tested.
Mold
While Mold spores can be found everywhere, they require moisture in order to grow, which means Mold growth is most commonly an indicator of another problem. Whether it be a roof leak, a leaky pipe, or a humidity / condensation issue, it is important to remedy the cause in order to avoid another Mold problem in the future. While proper Mold Remediation is necessary to resolve the existing Mold problem, it will not be able to prevent future mold growth should the right conditions still exist, and Left Unchecked, Can Lead to Significant Structural Ramifications. Mold Remediation should be performed by a qualified Mold Remediation company to ensure that the work will be done properly and without risk of contaminating unaffected areas. Disaster Blaster is proud to not only provide unmatched Mold Remediation experience, but our team of professionals was the First to Provide Mold Remediation Services in Northeastern PA!
Water
In addition to potentially resulting in Mold growth, Water Damage can also be discovered during a remodeling project and can result in significant damages of its own. Any water damage discovered during a remodel should be treated as an emergency, as it can quickly lead to further damages and Mold growth. Often, when someone discovers Water Damage, they aren’t really sure What They Can do to Minimize Damages. Disaster Blaster prides itself on providing exceptional Water Damage Mitigation services, and has teams available 24 / 7 to Respond to Your Emergency.
Should you discover a hazard such as those listed above during a remodel, the important thing to realize is that with the proper team, it can be remedied and the project can proceed. Disaster Blaster is happy to assist you with any indoor environmental concerns you may have, so please don’t hesitate to contact your local Disaster Blaster office!
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