Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is Asbestos?
- Where Asbestos Is Commonly Found in Calgary Properties
- Why Asbestos Is Dangerous
- What to Do If You Suspect Asbestos
- Do Not Disturb It
- Get Professional Testing
- Know the Regulations in Alberta
- Asbestos Abatement vs Removal
- Typical Asbestos Removal Costs in Calgary
- When to Call a Professional
- Insurance, Permits, and Legal Considerations
- DIY vs Professional Asbestos Handling
- How to Prevent Future Asbestos Exposure
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Introduction
Asbestos was once considered a “miracle material” for insulation, fire resistance, and durability. But today, it is recognized as a serious health hazard. Many older homes and buildings in Calgary still contain asbestos in flooring, insulation, ceiling tiles, drywall, and even siding.
If you’ve discovered or suspect asbestos in your property, knowing what to do—and what not to do—is critical for your safety and compliance with Alberta regulations.
This guide explains the risks of asbestos, how to handle it safely, typical removal costs in Calgary, and when to call certified professionals like DKI Calgary for asbestos abatement.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in construction materials before the mid-1980s. It is durable, resistant to heat, and effective as insulation.
Where Asbestos Is Commonly Found in Calgary Properties
If your home or commercial property was built before 1990, asbestos may be present in:
- Insulation around pipes and ducts
- Ceiling tiles and textured “popcorn” ceilings
- Vinyl flooring and adhesives
- Drywall joint compound
- Roofing shingles
- Cement siding panels
- Furnace and boiler insulation
- Acoustic panels and fireproofing sprays
Why Asbestos Is Dangerous
Asbestos is hazardous only when fibres become airborne and inhaled. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials during renovations, demolition, or even drilling can release microscopic fibres into the air.
Health risks include:
- Asbestosis (lung scarring)
- Mesothelioma (a rare cancer)
- Lung cancer
- Chronic respiratory illness
Because the effects may take years to appear, exposure is especially dangerous when unnoticed.
What to Do If You Suspect Asbestos
Do Not Disturb It
If you think a material might contain asbestos, avoid cutting, sanding, drilling, or removing it yourself. Disturbance is what makes it hazardous.
Get Professional Testing
Only a licensed asbestos inspector or restoration contractor can take safe samples and have them analyzed in a certified lab. Never attempt to collect samples on your own.
Know the Regulations in Alberta
Alberta Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) strictly regulates asbestos handling. If asbestos-containing material is confirmed, removal or abatement must follow provincial laws for worker safety, air quality, and hazardous waste disposal.
Asbestos Abatement vs Removal
There are two main approaches:
- Abatement (Encapsulation): Sealing asbestos-containing material so fibres cannot escape. This can be a safe, cost-effective solution if the material is in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed.
- Removal: Physically taking asbestos-containing materials out of the property. This is more expensive but often necessary during renovations, demolitions, or if materials are deteriorating.
Typical Asbestos Removal Costs in Calgary
The cost varies depending on the location, accessibility, and amount of asbestos.
| Situation | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Asbestos testing & inspection | $250 – $800 |
| Small job (e.g., vinyl flooring, 1–2 rooms) | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Pipe insulation or boiler wrap | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Ceiling texture removal (popcorn ceiling) | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Large-scale removal (whole home, major renovations) | $10,000 – $30,000+ |
When to Call a Professional
You should immediately contact a certified asbestos contractor if:
- You are planning renovations in a pre-1990 property.
- You see damaged insulation, crumbling ceiling tiles, or cracked vinyl flooring.
- You suspect asbestos but are unsure how to test safely.
- You need compliance with insurance or municipal requirements.
At DKI Calgary, our certified team follows strict containment, removal, and disposal procedures to ensure your home or workplace is safe.
Insurance, Permits and Legal Considerations
- Insurance: Some policies cover asbestos testing and removal if it’s part of a covered event (e.g., flood or storm damage). Others exclude asbestos remediation unless it’s required for restoration. Always confirm with your provider.
- Permits: Asbestos abatement in Calgary may require a permit, especially if removal is part of a larger renovation or demolition.
- Legal responsibilities: Property owners are responsible for ensuring asbestos is handled safely, especially in rental or commercial properties.
DIY vs Professional Asbestos Handling
| DIY | Professional |
|---|---|
| Very risky — even sampling can release fibres | Certified and trained in safe handling |
| Illegal to remove large quantities yourself in Alberta | Meets OHS and provincial regulations |
| No proper disposal methods | Hazardous waste disposal handled legally |
| Can cause health hazards and legal penalties | Provides clearance testing and documentation |
Bottom line: DIY asbestos removal is never recommended in Calgary. Hire a licensed professional.
How to Prevent Future Asbestos Exposure
- Have older properties tested before renovations.
- Keep asbestos materials undisturbed if in good condition.
- Seal or encapsulate if removal is not required.
- Schedule regular inspections if you own a commercial or multi-unit building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is all asbestos dangerous?
A: Asbestos is only dangerous when fibres are airborne. Intact, sealed materials are less risky, but still require careful monitoring.
Q: Do all older homes in Calgary have asbestos?
A: Not all, but many built before 1990 contain asbestos in at least one material.
Q: How long does removal take?
A: Small jobs may take 1–2 days. Larger removals can take a week or more.
Q: Can I sell a home with asbestos?
A: Yes, but disclosure is legally required. Buyers may request testing or removal before closing.
Conclusion
Finding asbestos in your Calgary property can be unsettling, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The most important step is to avoid disturbing it and contact certified professionals for testing and remediation.
At DKI Calgary, we specialize in safe asbestos testing, abatement, and removal. Whether you’re planning renovations, handling a property restoration, or just want peace of mind, our team ensures your home or business is safe, compliant, and asbestos-free.