Asbestos plaster

Asbestos in plaster has a history that dates back to the early 20th century, when the mineral was widely hailed for its excellent fire-resistant and insulating properties. During this period, asbestos was commonly mixed with plaster to enhance its durability and fireproofing capabilities, making it a popular choice for construction in both residential and commercial buildings. This practice was especially prevalent from the 1920s through the 1970s, a time when the dangers of asbestos exposure were not yet fully understood. Plaster containing asbestos was used in a variety of applications, including walls, ceilings, and decorative features, offering a robust and long-lasting solution that could also withstand high temperatures. However, as the health risks associated with asbestos, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, became more evident, the use of asbestos-laden plaster declined sharply. By the late 1970s and early 1980s, regulatory measures were introduced globally to restrict and eventually ban the use of asbestos in building materials, including plaster. Today, older buildings that contain asbestos plaster must be carefully managed and, where necessary, undergo professional abatement to protect occupants and workers from exposure to harmful asbestos fibers. 

It is not feasible to ascertain the presence of asbestos in plaster solely based on its appearance. To accurately determine whether asbestos is present, please contact us to arrange for sample collection. We will send these samples to an accredited Ottawa based third-party laboratory for evaluation. If the test results confirm the presence of asbestos plaster and you choose Apogee for the asbestos removal, we will waive the costs associated with material sampling and analysis. 

The removal of asbestos plaster is an extensive and costly undertaking. Due to the material’s propensity to break down and produce airborne dust, comprehensive safety and removal procedures are essential to mitigate the risk of exposure to employees. Labor constitutes the primary expense in these projects, driven by the significant safety risks associated with asbestos handling. Workers are compensated at a premium rate due to the hazardous nature of the job, which also requires them to undergo rigorous training and obtain specialized certifications to ensure safe and effective removal.

Another major cost factor is the disposal of the asbestos waste. The waste from plaster removal is typically heavier than that from other types of asbestos abatements, leading to higher disposal costs, often comparable to labor expenses. Asbestos waste cannot be disposed of in regular landfills; it requires special certifications, licenses, and permits for proper transportation and disposal. Apogee Environmental Solutions does not handle the disposal of asbestos waste directly; we subcontract this task to larger companies in Ottawa that are equipped for such operations.

Additional costs associated with asbestos plaster removal include specialized abatement equipment, advanced safety gear, site preparation and protection, meticulous planning, and comprehensive insurance coverage. For an accurate quote, please fill out our contact form or give us a call. This will enable us to thoroughly assess your project and provide precise pricing.  We hope you choose us for your asbestos removal!