How to Test for Asbestos: All You Need to Know

If you own a property, you must know if any hazardous materials are lurking behind your walls and under the floorboards. For this reason, asbestos testing is essential to proper home maintenance, as asbestos can cause serious health problems such as lung cancer over prolonged exposure.

Testing for asbestos in your building may sound intimidating but fear not — with the right steps and resources, you’ll have all the knowledge to ensure that everyone living in or around your building is safe from harmful toxins. Read on for our complete guide on how to test for asbestos!

Can You Test for Asbestos?

Yes, it is possible to test for asbestos in your home. A couple of options are available to accurately detect the presence of asbestos and any potential health risks associated with it.

Professional Testing Services

You can hire a licensed professional to come and inspect your property, take samples from suspect materials, and analyze them either on-site or in a laboratory. This is the most reliable way to test for asbestos as it involves using specialized equipment and highly trained expertise.

Home Test Kits

For those who want to do some DIY testing, there are also cheaper options available in the form of at-home kits that can be purchased online or from hardware stores. These kits will allow you to take a sample of the suspect material and send it off for analysis in an accredited laboratory.

However, this method is often less reliable than a professional test, as there is always the risk of introducing contamination through improper sample collection.

Is It Necessary?

If you own a property built before 1989, asbestos-containing building materials were likely used in its construction. Even if your home was built after the ban, asbestos could likely be present due to the overturning of the ban in 1991. Regardless of the age of your property, testing for asbestos should be a priority if you suspect there may be materials containing the mineral.

Steps to Test Your Property for Asbestos

Testing your property for asbestos is straightforward as long as you follow the necessary steps and use the proper safety gear. Here is how to test for asbestos:

1. Don’t disturb any suspect area; it’s important not to move or break anything before testing.
2. Use protective equipment such as respiratory masks and gloves when handling potentially hazardous materials.
3. Cover the area with plastic sheeting and spray with water to avoid dust contamination.
4. Isolate the material you want to analyze by cutting out a small sample from an inconspicuous area using a sharp blade or heavy-duty scissors.
5. Seal up this sample in airtight double-bagged plastic bags.
6. Discard the sheeting and any other material used in the process of collecting your sample, taking care to seal them properly and dispose of them correctly.
7. Vacuum away the dust and wipe down surfaces with damp clothes (that you can throw away afterward).
8. Paint over the area from where you took your sample to seal the area and avoid contamination from loose particles. Dispose of the paintbrush when finished.
9. Remove all protective gear. Make sure not to come into contact with any potentially hazardous materials or dust particles before discarding them properly. 
10. Send off your sample to an EPA-certified laboratory for analysis.

How Much Does It Cost to Test for Asbestos

The testing costs for asbestos depend on the size and type of sample and the laboratory you choose to send it to. Professional home inspection services can cost anywhere from $300–$800, and DIY testing kits usually range between $10–$50. That’s a national average cost range. 

Hiring a professional for an accurate test is always advisable, as they are more likely to spot any potential risks.

Get a Clean Cut Asbestos Inspection

Are you looking for a reliable asbestos inspector? At Clean Cut Abatement, we offer comprehensive asbestos testing and abatement services to both residential and commercial customers. 

Our highly trained professionals are dedicated to providing accurate assessment and compliance with local regulations. Contact us today for a free quote or to discuss your needs. We look forward to helping you keep your property safe!