Asbestos Abatement: DIY Bathroom Demo
New Chicago house hacker here, moving in and starting with a bathroom gut in my own unit. Doing as much of the work myself as I can. My 3-flat was built in 1905 and "rehabbed" in 2006. Should I get my materials tested for asbestos prior to demo? (tile, cement sheets, tar paper subfloor) Not sure exactly what's hiding beneath.
If yes, I would appreciate any referrals in my PMs. I understand this question is more suited to a construction audience, but thought I'd give it a swing here first. Any prior experiences with Chicagoland asbestos are appreciated. I know it's found commonly on insulated pipes in the multifamilies.
Thanks,
Jack
Most Popular Reply
No, never test unless you are actually removing it. If you test, now you have knowledge, which means you have to remove or disclose. Better leave status as unknown.
Asbestos containing material is not harmful until you mess with it get fibers in the air, which get in your lungs.
Problem with removing is that you will cause a lot of fibers to become airborne, that's why its so expensive. EPA recommends to leave it in place and seal it in with paint, epoxy etc to prevent fibers from getting into the air.