Understanding the Hidden Risks During Renovations
Renovating an older home or commercial space in Central Alberta can be an exciting project, but before you start tearing down walls or replacing flooring, it’s important to think about what’s behind those materials. Many properties built before the 1990s still contain asbestos, a once-popular construction material that was valued for its heat resistance and durability. Unfortunately, asbestos fibres are extremely hazardous when disturbed.
When these tiny fibres are released into the air and inhaled, they can cause serious and long-term health problems such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. The danger comes from exposure during renovations—especially when materials like drywall compound, insulation, floor tiles, or ceiling textures are cut, sanded, or removed without proper precautions.
Asbestos remains a common concern throughout Alberta’s housing stock, particularly in Red Deer, Calgary, and Edmonton, where many older homes are being upgraded or remodelled. The safest approach is to have your property professionally tested before beginning any work that could disturb potential asbestos-containing materials.
Why Professional Testing and Removal Matter
Asbestos testing isn’t just a precaution—it’s an essential part of a safe and responsible renovation plan. Professional testing identifies which materials contain asbestos and how much is present. At Ask Environmental, trained technicians collect samples from your home or building and send them to accredited laboratories for precise analysis. This process ensures that any risk is identified before renovation work begins.
If asbestos is confirmed, removal should only be handled by certified professionals who follow strict safety procedures. Licensed asbestos removal experts use specialized equipment to contain affected areas, prevent airborne contamination, and safely dispose of materials in compliance with Alberta’s environmental and occupational safety regulations.
Attempting to remove asbestos yourself can create a much bigger problem. Without professional containment and air filtration, fibres can spread throughout your home, settling into soft furnishings and HVAC systems. Proper removal ensures the safety of everyone involved in your renovation—homeowners, contractors, and future occupants alike.
Professional remediation also includes post-removal air quality testing to verify that the space is safe before construction resumes. This final testing step provides peace of mind and important documentation for insurance or resale purposes.
Read More: Advantages of Professional Asbestos Testing Compared With a Do-It-Yourself Test
Building Safer Homes and Healthier Spaces
Including asbestos removal in your renovation plan protects more than just your investment—it safeguards your health and the health of those around you. Renovations are meant to improve living conditions, not introduce new risks. By identifying asbestos before you begin, you can avoid costly delays, unexpected expenses, and potential exposure.
It’s also a requirement under Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety Code that all hazardous materials, including asbestos, be properly identified and managed before renovation or demolition. Property owners who fail to do so could face fines or liability if workers or residents are exposed.
As Central Alberta continues to modernize its housing and infrastructure, asbestos testing has become a vital part of responsible renovation planning. When performed by a trusted local company like Ask Environmental, the process is straightforward, compliant, and ensures your space remains safe from start to finish.
Contact Ask Environmental today for safe, professional asbestos testing and removal services in Central Alberta.