Old House with some Asbestos Insulation

Wayne Happ
Other/Just Looking
Califon, NJ

I'm looking at buying an older house that appears to have some asbestos insulation around the oil burner pipes in the basement. It's steam heat via radiators and an oil burner. The seller is willing to foot the bill for the simplier of the methods.

Option 1 is removal of the asbestos.
Option 2 is encasing the insulation in some kind of "encapsulant"

Which method would be less risky? I know that the tendency is to entomb the stuff. (After looking at a bunch of older houses.)

It's about 54 feet of pipe and the estimates seem kind of low to me. Ranging from $1,200-$1,400. this sound like an accurate estimate?

Answers (4)
Steve King
Other/Just Looking
Cherry Hill, NJ

Your best bet is to have the asbestos removed.

There are no typical asbestos costs as each project is unique. Factors that affect the cost for proper removal and disposal include location of the asbestos containing materials (is it elevated, in a crawlspace, etc.), composition (i.e. floor tile, transite, insulation, etc.), distance to nearest landfill.

The Mack Group, LLC has the expertise and experience to develop cost estimates for a simple boiler abatement project to an entire facility wide asbestos removal project. We can provide a cost estimate as well as firm pricing and, of course, we can professionally and safely execute the actual abatement. We look forward to providing you consulting, estimating or contracting services on your next asbestos project.

Contact Information:

The MACK Group, LLC
1500 Kings Hwy. N., Ste 209
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Tel: 973-759-5000
Fax: 973-759-5554
Web: http://www.mackgrp.com

For more information contact: Steve King (973) 759-5000 or via email sking@mackgrp.com

Web Reference: http://www.mackgrp.com
Tue Jan 6 2009, 11:43
Rafi Footerman
Agent
Edison, NJ

There are pros and cons to both options. The biggest pro to removal is that once it's gone, it's gone. The con is that there are always some risks in removal. Encapsulation is usually less expensive and less risky. Additionally, the asbestos was used for years since it is a great insulator and not flamable. By encapsulating you retain those benefits. Of course if there are ever problems with those pipes, the asbestos may have to be removed then to repair the pipes.

Ultimately you should speak with at least 2 licensed asbestos remediation companies and seek their advise as to the best course of action for your specific situation.

Feel free to contact me for more information. I don't make money for referrals, just my inspections.

Rafi Footerman
Mid Jersey Inspections
732-906-4100
NJ Home Inspector Lic. #076900

Tue Feb 26 2008, 19:37
Diane Glander,...
Agent
Spring Lake, NJ

Definately have it removed. As far as your estimate goes, I wouldn't worry about the price. The seller is paying for it. Be sure to get a look at the bill and receipt of payment so that you know that an abatement team is doing the work and the seller doesn't decide to take it out himself to save money.
good luck!

Wed Feb 13 2008, 05:40
Linette Carroll...
Agent
Wilmington, DE
FIRST ANSWER

I would have the seller remove the asbestos before you close on the property. When you remove asbestos it has to be done carefully and by a certified removal company. If your are using FHA they will demand that it be removed .

Tue Feb 12 2008, 20:38

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