What to Look for in an Asbestos Treatment Company

If you’ve ever moved house, purchased property or rented business premises, it’s likely you’ll be familiar with asbestos. Sure, you may not be an expert, but it’s likely you’ll have a rough understanding of the material and its hazards.

That said, it takes expert knowledge and professional equipment to remove asbestos, in any form. If you believe that there may be asbestos on your property that is in need of safe remediation, you’ll need to find a reliable removal service to take care of the job.

So, what should you look for in an asbestos removal company? If this question fills you with a sense of dread, fear not. Here at Gowrie Contracts Ltd, we’ve put together a complete guide to finding a reliable contractor for your asbestos treatment.



What Is Asbestos?

Before we dive into the treatment and remediation of asbestos, it is worth gaining a basic understanding of the material and its properties. Essentially, asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral, made up of long thin crystals. Despite its surge in use throughout the early 20th century, asbestos has been utilised in many forms for thousands of years. From fire resistance in ancient Greece to ceramic pottery in Finland, asbestos was used around the world for thousands of years; only relatively recently were its dangers discovered.

Owing to the range of applications for which asbestos was used, it can take many forms. That said, loose-fill asbestos insulation is typically one of three different colours. It will usually be grey, brown, or silvery gold in appearance.

The Dangers Of Asbestos

Following decades of asbestos mining and manufacturing, research began unearthing its carcinogenic properties. Owing to its fibrous construction, asbestos particles are released into the air when disturbed. If inhaled, these particles can cause serious long-term damage to your lungs. What is particularly worrying is the fact that no amount of asbestos is considered safe. Even a small amount can pose a serious risk to health, so be sure to contact a professional if you believe the material is present on your property.

Asbestos was used for construction projects up and down the country throughout the early 20th century. Unaware of its dangers, the material was utilised in roofing, insulation, cars and more. By the 1960s, however, the relationship between asbestos and respiratory diseases such as lung cancer was clearly understood, and yet significant changes in regulations were not introduced until the 1990s! By 1999, every type of asbestos was banned within the UK.

Asbestos Testing

With the dangers of asbestos clarified, you’d be forgiven for feeling slightly worried about its presence in your home or property. There’s no denying that it is a silent killer, but with the right assistance, it can be safely tested for and removed. As we mentioned above, asbestos is only a risk when it is disturbed, causing particles to enter the air. Therefore, trained professionals are able to test and remove asbestos without causing it to pollute the air.

That said, it can be difficult knowing whether or not there is asbestos in your home or commercial property. The year that the building was constructed is often a good indicator of asbestos. If it was built between 1920 and 1970, it is worth having an expert check whether or not asbestos is present. In order to test for asbestos, a qualified professional will need to visit your property and conduct a survey.

Asbestos Removal

So, how exactly is asbestos removed? The first thing you should note is that safety is the number one concern throughout any asbestos remediation project. Here at Gowrie Contracts Ltd, we take a thorough and total approach to asbestos remediation, which includes site decontamination, encapsulation, environmental cleaning and, most importantly, the controlled wetting injection system known as the ‘red box’.

The Safe Trip or ‘red box’ system is the only system that complies with BS 8520-1:2009. It involves the insertion of fine needles into the asbestos itself which are then used to inject wetting fluid into the asbestos capillaries. Once the asbestos is wet, it will release little to no fibres, making it much safer to remove.

Using the above methods, we’re able to safely prepare, remove, contain and dispose of asbestos, posing no risk to your home or health.

Finding An Asbestos Removal & Treatment Service

Whether you’re a homeowner, an office manager or run a business, asbestos can present a number of issues to your livelihood and health. If you suspect that this troublesome fibre may have been used in your property, it is essential that it is removed safely and effectively. That said, where do you start? With an understanding of the many hazards associated with asbestos, it’s clear that you should never attempt to remove it yourself; employing the services of trained professionals with the correct equipment and protective gear is a must.

If you’re on the hunt for a reliable asbestos remediation service, there are a few things to keep in mind while searching. Below, we’ll outline the key considerations when looking for an asbestos removal service.

Experience

Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, it is important to look for an asbestos removal company that has plenty of experience. As discussed above, asbestos is a dangerous material and, if handled without due care and attention, can cause harm to those within its vicinity. When searching for an asbestos remediation service, be sure to check how long they have been operating and that they are well-versed in all areas of asbestos testing, removal and disposal.

Here at Gowrie Contracts Ltd, we’re proud to have decades of experience behind us. This, combined with our passion for providing flawless service has helped us to solidify a reputation for excellence among our vast customer base. When called upon, we’ll carefully assess the area and find the most efficient solution for your home or commercial property. Not only do we hold a three-year asbestos licence issued by the Health and Safety Executive, but we always put the health and safety of our customers before anything else. Ensure that your property is safe today with help from our asbestos removal team.

Customer Service

Moreover, it is important to find an asbestos removal service that puts the needs of its clients and customers first. The process of finding and removing asbestos can be stressful and anxiety-inducing for those involved. Especially if the property in question is your home or business. Therefore, finding a company that understands the impact of the process on families, livelihoods and homes is a must.

Don’t worry though; done properly, asbestos removal is a swift and efficient process, causing minimal disruption to your home or commercial property.

Availability

Last but not least, it is important to find an asbestos removal service that can come at a time that suits you. With the process of asbestos removal already causing some disruption, finding a company that can cater to your requirements is a must. Be it a home, business premises or private property, be sure to search for a removal specialist that can come at a time that suits you.

Here at Gowrie Contracts Ltd, we’re pleased to offer each and every one of our customers 24/7 care. This means that no matter when you require our services, we’re always here to help. Come rain or shine, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, we’re here to help you get rid of asbestos safely, efficiently and cost-effectively.

Gowrie Contracts Ltd

If you’re based in Dundee, Tayside or beyond, and are on the lookout for a high-quality, reliable asbestos removal service, search no more. With over 30 years of first-hand industry experience, Gowrie Contracts Ltd are here to help. If you’re in need of demolition, land reclamation, land remediation or asbestos removal services, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Call us on 01382 237854 or send an email to admin@gowriecontracts.co.uk.