As supply chain disruptions ease and the warm weather approaches, many property owners in the city and across Canada are finally able to proceed with their renovation plans. Despite an eagerness to get started on these commercial and residential projects, it’s essential to be diligent to avoid exposure to hidden contaminants. Before taking that first swing of a sledgehammer, restoration experts recommend scheduling asbestos removal in Toronto as well as mold removal in Toronto from a certified and experienced restoration company. By addressing these contaminants before you begin construction work, you can preserve the structural integrity of your property and your health.
Understand the Impact of Mold
There are thousands of species of mold that can be found indoors. The rapid speed at which mold can spread not only poses serious health risks but can impact the progress of your renovations. If there is an infestation on your property that is not detected ahead of construction, everyone in the vicinity, including you and your contractors, will be exposed day after day to the toxins released by the ever-growing mold spores. Continued exposure to mold has serious health implications, including allergies, respiratory problems & asthma, and even neurological problems like memory loss.
Beyond the health effects of mold exposure, proceeding with renovation projects without mold removal in Toronto can cause infestations to continue spreading without detection. As mold replicates, it seeks out moisture and cellulose food sources which leave a variety of building materials vulnerable to infestation. As you install and upgrade drywall, wood beams, and even insulation during renovations, undetected mold spores can quickly infiltrate these new materials and cause deterioration.
Mold Detection & Removal
Before starting your commercial or residential renovations, look out for common signs of mold infestations. If you notice a strong, pungent odour that smells like rotting, there is a good chance that a large outbreak exists somewhere on your property. To identify the location and scope of the mold, schedule a professional mold inspection. You may also be able to identify mold visibly. Typically colonies will appear in Earth-toned colours like black, yellow, green, gray, and brown, and they will show up on surfaces in spotted patterns as they expand. The best way to handle mold is with professional support from a restoration company in Toronto that has the leading industry equipment and experience. Our team at Canada’s Restoration Services will provide a comprehensive approach to mold inspection, testing, and remediation, so you can complete your renovation project safely and effectively.
Understand the Impact of Asbestos
Asbestos is a hazardous contaminant commonly found indoors, but unlike mold, asbestos was intentionally used in the manufacturing of building materials and construction for its fire resistance, durability, and affordability. The mineral was popular in the mid-to-late 20th century but was eventually banned in Canada because of its serious health effects. Despite a federal ban on the mineral in construction, asbestos testing in Toronto still detects contaminated materials in modern commercial and residential properties. If left undisturbed or sealed, asbestos may not be an immediate threat. Unfortunately, since most instances of the mineral are decades old, it is often in a state of decay which is only made worse by renovations.
Asbestos is incredibly sensitive to contact, especially when in a friable state. The slightest touch or movement can cause the thin mineral fibers to be sent into the air, at which point they divide uncontrollably. As these fibers get smaller, they can easily be ingested or inhaled by those nearby, entering the lungs, trachea, and esophagus, which can scar tissues and lead to chronic illnesses like Mesothelioma. To avoid the risk of asbestos exposure and related disease, property owners should always conduct inspections before breaking ground on renovations.
Asbestos Detection & Removal
While there are some indicators that your property is more likely to contain asbestos, the
mineral has no discernable colour or smell, so detection is best handled by professional restoration companies in Toronto who can use their expertise to accurately identify whether asbestos abatement is required. The time in which your property was constructed or last renovated is the best way to determine if you’re more likely to need asbestos removal in Toronto. Because the mineral was used most heavily between the 1960s and 1990s, commercial, residential, and public buildings that were under construction during that period are at enhanced risk for asbestos contamination. Because of the volatile nature of asbestos, it’s best not to get close to potential asbestos-containing materials like drywall, vinyl floor tiles, loose-fill insulation, stucco ceilings, or pipe/duct wraps. Instead, contact Canada’s Restoration Services for inspections and asbestos testing. If any materials have 0.5% asbestos or more, we will ensure they are safely removed from your property so you can start your risk-free renovations.
Choosing a Restoration Company You Can Trust
To ensure that your renovation is carried out safely and effectively, it’s best to engage a highly-rated and qualified restoration company near Toronto for a full range of detection and removal services. Canada’s Restoration Services is an IICRC-certified team with decades of experience that can help you avoid any dangerous surprises.