Asbestos is a group of minerals that were widely used in construction because they resist heat and fire. The danger comes from breathing in the fibers, which is linked to serious and often fatal diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. These health issues can take 15 to 50 years to appear, and because there is no known safe level of exposure, it is important to handle these materials with extreme caution.

Most people assume asbestos was banned a long time ago, but that is not the case. While the EPA attempted a full ban in the 70s, that decision was largely overturned in the early 90s. Many products containing asbestos are still legal and used today. We frequently find it in newer construction, so we always recommend testing regardless of when your home was built.

You should always have a professional survey done before you start any demolition or remodeling project. Most reputable contractors will not begin work until they know the materials are safe to handle. This is especially important for common risk areas like popcorn ceilings, vinyl flooring, joint compounds, and old insulation where hazardous fibers are often hidden.

We really advise against using DIY kits. They often give false negatives because the sampling is not done thoroughly enough. More importantly, regulatory agencies like the CDPHE, EPA, and OSHA do not recognize DIY results as valid. For a report to be official, the inspection must be performed by a Colorado Licensed Building Inspector who completes state-certified training every year.

We know that project delays can be expensive, so we move quickly. We take a small, thumbnail-sized sample and send it to a certified lab for analysis. You can usually expect your results within 24 to 48 hours so you can keep your project on schedule. If you are in an urgent situation, we can also provide same-day service upon request.

Lead is a neurotoxin that is particularly dangerous for kids because their growing bodies absorb it much faster than adults do. Their nervous systems are extremely sensitive to lead, which can enter the body through paint chips or dust created during home repairs. Professional testing identifies these hazards before they impact your family's health, giving you the information you need to keep your home safe.