Niagara Officials Taken by Surprise by Asbestos Abatement

The Niagara Region is home to many historic properties and their old time flavour is part of what drives tourism in the area along with adding to the quality of everyday life. Many of these historic structures are functioning public buildings, as in the case of the Old Pelham Town Hall in Welland, Ontario.

When it comes to providing these venerable structures with much needed renovations and repairs, however, it seems that many property owners (including  public agencies) are being taken by surprise by something that’s actually been hanging around for decades – asbestos.

Recent reports indicate that the renovations of the Old Pelham Town Hall are proceeding ahead of schedule despite a glitch during the very first stage when asbestos was discovered. Asbestos abatement or removal wasn’t part of the project’s budget, adding an unexpected expense. After a survey, professional asbestos technicians removed the material and work proceeded.

Built in 1743, the property represents a rare piece of pre-Confederation Canadian history and is certainly worth preserving. The asbestos was no doubt introduced during early 20th century improvements.

Renovations – Budget for Asbestos
When it comes to your own planned renovations or unplanned repairs, don’t let asbestos take you by surprise. If your home was built before the late 1980’s, it’s likely to contain asbestos in many areas and it may appear in various mixed formulations, including:

• Ceiling and floor tiles
• Roofing and siding materials
• Wall panels
• Window and door caulking (indoor & outdoor)
• Textured paints
• Popcorn ceilings

Asbestos in Your Home
As long as asbestos or asbestos containing materials (ACM – such as asbestos/vinyl floor tiles) are intact, they are not considered a health hazard however any renovations or work that disturbs materials or causes dust can release breathable asbestos fibres into the air.

We can help:
Our seasoned team of asbestos removal experts can handle large or smaller asbestos remediation or removal jobs.

In the Toronto area contact GreenStreamEnvironmental.ca at (416) 818-9414. Contact us for a quote today.

Featured in Mike Holmes’ magazine, HGTV’s Income Properties, W Network’s Love It Or List It and chosen by Homestars.com as “Best Toronto Asbestos Removal Company” based on customer ratings and reviews, GreenStream Environmental Services are fully-certified, trusted and insured professionals in the removal and disposal of commercial, industrial, institutional and residential asbestos, vermiculite and mould (hazardous and non-hazardous). Providing emergency service 24/7/365 for all of Toronto and the GTA (North York, Mississauga, Markham, Brampton, Scarborough, Ajax, Oshawa, and beyond) GreenStream has over 40 combined years of experience serving clients such as the City of Toronto, the Toronto District School Board and many more. For a free estimate in Toronto, the GTA and Southern Ontario, call today at 416-818-9414.  You’ll be glad you did.