For many Calgary homeowners renovating an older home, one concern often comes to mind: asbestos. If your home was built before 1990, it may contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Understanding where asbestos may be present and how to handle it safely can protect your family and keep your renovation on track.
Understanding the Dangers of Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of tiny, durable fibres. Builders widely used it from the 1950s through the late 1980s because it resisted heat, electricity, and wear. As a result, many older Calgary homes still contain asbestos in insulation, vinyl flooring, ceiling tiles, drywall joint compound, stucco, pipe insulation, and other building materials.
Asbestos does not usually pose a risk when it remains intact and undisturbed. However, cutting, drilling, sanding, or demolishing asbestos-containing materials releases microscopic fibres into the air. Once inhaled, these fibres can remain in the lungs for decades and increase the risk of serious diseases.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is an aggressive and incurable cancer caused by asbestos exposure. It most commonly affects the lining of the lungs. However, it can also develop around the heart or abdominal cavity.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by breathing asbestos fibres. Over time, it can lead to permanent lung damage, reduced lung function, and ongoing shortness of breath.
Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. Unfortunately, symptoms often do not appear for 20 to 50 years after exposure.
Why Professional Asbestos Removal Matters
If you suspect your home contains asbestos, contact the experienced team at Wise Abatement. For more than 13 years, we have helped homeowners and businesses throughout Calgary and Southern Alberta safely remove hazardous materials while staying true to our commitment: “Here to Protect What Matters Most.”
Our certified team carefully assesses every project, explains the process, and provides transparent pricing before work begins. Throughout every project, we focus on safety, clear communication, and dependable service from start to finish.
Wise Abatement Tip: Never test for or remove asbestos yourself. DIY removal can release dangerous fibres into your home and place everyone inside at risk. Instead, rely on trained professionals with the proper equipment, containment procedures, and expertise.
The Wise Abatement Asbestos Removal Process
Inspection and Material Sampling
Our team begins with a thorough inspection of your home or building. Next, we collect samples from suspected asbestos-containing materials and send them to an accredited third-party laboratory for analysis. The laboratory results confirm whether asbestos is present and identify the affected materials.
Detailed Scope and Transparent Quote
After receiving the laboratory results, we prepare a detailed scope of work, timeline, and no-obligation quote. In addition, we explain every step so you understand exactly what the project involves before work begins.
Containment and Air Filtration
Before removal begins, our technicians isolate the work area using professional containment barriers. Then, we seal doors, vents, and other openings with heavy-duty plastic and tape. Additionally, we install negative air filtration units to prevent asbestos fibres from spreading throughout your home.
Safe Asbestos Removal
After securing the work area, our COR Safety Certified technicians carefully remove all asbestos-containing materials. Meanwhile, they wear specialized protective clothing and follow Alberta regulations and industry best practices throughout the removal process.
Thorough Cleanup
Once removal is complete, we thoroughly clean the entire work area. First, our technicians use HEPA-filtered vacuums to collect any remaining debris. Then, they perform detailed wet-wiping procedures to remove microscopic asbestos fibres from surfaces and the surrounding environment.
Independent Air Clearance Testing
After cleanup, an independent hygienist performs air quality testing to confirm the area is safe for re-entry. Once testing is complete, you receive a clearance report for your records. Finally, we double-bag all asbestos waste and transport it to an approved hazardous waste facility according to Alberta environmental regulations.
Why Calgary Homeowners Choose Wise Abatement
Removing hazardous materials can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, you do not have to handle the process alone. We provide more than professional remediation—we provide confidence from start to finish.
Safe Removal Guarantee
We support every completed project with independent third-party air clearance testing. As a result, you can feel confident the area is safe to occupy.
COR Certified
Our Certificate of Recognition (COR) demonstrates our commitment to workplace safety. Furthermore, it reflects our dedication to meeting strict industry standards on every project.
Licensed and Fully Insured
Wise Abatement is a licensed City of Calgary contractor. Additionally, we carry $5 million in liability insurance and $2 million in pollution insurance for your protection.
Experienced Local Professionals
As a locally owned Calgary company, we have protected homes and businesses throughout Southern Alberta for more than 13 years. Because we understand local construction practices and regulations, we can provide reliable guidance from inspection through final clearance.
Wise Abatement Tip: If you purchase an older home or plan a renovation involving a property built before 1990, schedule a hazardous materials inspection before work begins. Doing so protects your health, prevents costly delays, and helps you comply with Alberta regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asbestos in Calgary
How can I tell if my Calgary home contains asbestos?
Only trained professionals can accurately identify asbestos through laboratory testing. Therefore, if your home was built before 1990, assume some materials may contain asbestos until testing confirms otherwise.
Can I remove asbestos myself to save money?
No. DIY asbestos removal can expose you and your family to dangerous airborne fibres. Instead, professional contractors use specialized equipment, containment systems, and approved disposal methods to complete the work safely.
How much does asbestos removal cost in Calgary?
The cost depends on the type of material, the size of the affected area, accessibility, and the condition of the asbestos. After completing the inspection, Wise Abatement provides a detailed, transparent quote so you know exactly what to expect.
Do I need asbestos testing before renovating?
Yes. Alberta regulations require asbestos testing before renovating many older homes. Most importantly, testing protects workers, occupants, and neighbouring areas from accidental exposure while helping your project remain compliant.
How long does asbestos removal take?
Project timelines vary depending on the size and complexity of the work. Smaller projects may take a single day, while larger abatement jobs can require several days. Before work begins, we provide a detailed project schedule so you know what to expect.
Protect Your Home and Family
Don’t let asbestos delay your renovation or put your family’s health at risk. Instead, trust Wise Abatement to complete your asbestos removal safely, professionally, and in full compliance with Alberta regulations.
Contact Wise Abatement today at 587-997-6500 for a free, no-obligation consultation and quote, or visit our website to request service. Whether you are planning a renovation, purchasing an older home, or responding to a positive asbestos test, our experienced team is ready to help you renovate with confidence.
