Summer is the season of home improvements. Warm weather makes it easier to take on bigger projects. Whether you’re tearing down old walls, pulling up flooring, or gutting a bathroom, summer is the time many homeowners choose to renovate. But if your house was built before the 1990s, there may be a hidden danger waiting behind the drywall. That danger is asbestos. This material can cause serious health problems if disturbed. In places like Kamloops, Victoria, and throughout BC, many older homes still contain materials with asbestos. Before starting any remodels, testing for the substance should be your first step. Follow along below to learn more about BC asbestos removal for summer renovations.
Why BC Asbestos Removal Is Still a Big Deal in Homes
Asbestos was once seen as a miracle building material. It was strong, heat-resistant, and used in all kinds of construction. You’ll find it in insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, siding, roofing, and more. But we now know that asbestos is dangerous. Tiny fibres can break off and float in the air. When breathed in, they can get stuck in your lungs and cause illness years later. Diseases like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer are all linked to asbestos exposure.
BC banned the use of asbestos in new buildings in the 1990s, but many older homes still have it. This is especially true in areas with long housing histories like Kamloops and Victoria. Renovating without testing means you risk releasing those fibres into the air. Even small DIY jobs can disturb asbestos-containing materials. You won’t know it’s there unless you test. Even tasks as simple as sanding drywall or removing old tiles can put your health at risk.
If asbestos is found, it needs to be handled by trained professionals. They use special tools and protective gear. The goal is to remove it safely without spreading it through your home. A licensed abatement team follows strict rules to keep everyone safe. This is not something to try on your own. Asbestos is too dangerous, and the risk isn’t worth it.
Why Summer Renovations Need Extra Caution
Summer is one of the busiest times for renovations. The dry weather makes it easier to work outdoors and keep your home open during construction. Additionally, with kids out of school, and people taking vacation time, it all lines up for projects to begin. But that also means more chances to uncover asbestos in your home.
This season is especially risky because families often stay in the house during renovations. That can expose more people to asbestos if it’s disturbed. Once those fibres are in the air, they can land on clothes, furniture, and other surfaces. You might not even know you’ve been exposed. The health effects of asbestos don’t show up right away. It can take 10, 20, or even 30 years for symptoms to appear. That’s why it’s so important to be careful now.
In BC, proper asbestos removal is the law. Contractors are required to follow strict guidelines when working on homes that may contain asbestos. If you skip testing and a contractor disturbs asbestos, they could face serious fines. And you could be left with a contaminated home and an expensive cleanup bill.
Thankfully, testing doesn’t take long. Professionals can take samples from areas you plan to renovate. They send them to a lab, and you usually get results in a few days. If asbestos is found, a trained removal team can take care of it safely. Once it’s gone, you can carry on with your renovation knowing your home is healthier and safer.
Get Tested Before You Renovate
Summer renovations can be exciting, but they also come with risks. Asbestos exposure is serious and often invisible. The only way to know if your home is safe is to test before you start any demolition or repair work. If asbestos is found, hire a professional removal service that follows BC’s safety laws. You and your family’s health is worth the extra step.
Call us today to schedule an asbestos test. We serve homes across Kamloops, Victoria, and other BC communities. Make sure your summer project starts safely.
FAQ About BC Asbestos Removal
- What does asbestos look like?
You can’t always see asbestos. It’s often hidden in building materials. It doesn’t have a smell or taste. Only lab testing can tell you if it’s there.
- Is asbestos still used in homes today?
No. Asbestos was banned from new construction in BC in the 1990s. But older homes may still have it in insulation, flooring, and walls.
- Can I remove asbestos myself?
No. Asbestos should only be removed by licensed professionals. It’s too dangerous to handle without the right equipment and training.
- How long does asbestos testing take?
Most testing companies collect samples in one visit. Results usually come back in a few days from the lab.
- What happens if asbestos is found in my home?
If asbestos is found, a certified removal team can safely remove it. After removal, your home will be safe to renovate.