Asbestos is commonly found in many older industrial buildings, especially in facilities that were constructed before modern safety standards were established. When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) remain intact and undisturbed, they are generally considered low risk. But the risk increases when ACMs are damaged or disturbed during construction. In these situations, microscopic airborne fibers can be released, and they can make people very sick. Asbestos exposure can even lead to fatal illnesses like asbestosis and mesothelioma.

Because of these risks, industrial property owners must make informed decisions about how to manage asbestos on their sites. The two best options are encapsulation and full removal. Below, this asbestos removal contractor in Buffalo Grove, Illinois is going to explain the difference between these two options.

What is asbestos encapsulation?

Asbestos encapsulation is a management method that controls ACMs without physically removing them from the building. A professional asbestos removal contractor in Buffalo Grove, Illinois may recommend encapsulation when asbestos materials are stable and unlikely to be disturbed during normal operations or future maintenance.

During this process, a specialized sealant is applied directly to the asbestos material. This coating either penetrates the material to bind fibers together or forms a protective surface barrier to prevent asbestos fibers from becoming airborne and entering occupied spaces. This method can be used for pipe/boiler insulation and similar materials located in low-traffic or restricted-access areas of industrial facilities.

Compared to full removal, encapsulation tends to be faster and causes less disruption to ongoing operations. Most facilities can even remain open while the work is completed. But encapsulation is still regulated in Illinois and must be performed by licensed professionals who follow strict safety and documentation requirements.

What should you expect from a full asbestos removal?

Full asbestos removal is a remediation process that permanently eliminates all ACMs from a facility. The process starts with an inspection and lab testing to confirm the presence and type of asbestos. Based on these findings, a project-specific abatement plan is developed. The work area is then fully contained and placed under negative air pressure to prevent asbestos fibers from escaping into other areas of the building.

Trained workers wear specialized protective equipment and use wet removal techniques to minimize the release of airborne fibers during handling. Throughout the project, continuous air monitoring is conducted to verify that safety standards are being met and that fiber levels remain within allowable limits.

By fully eliminating asbestos from the site, full removal resolves the hazard. After removal, no special handling or ongoing monitoring of the affected materials is required.

That said, full removal generally involves higher upfront costs and longer project timelines. In many cases, normal operations may need to pause temporarily while the work is completed. Despite these considerations, full removal is the best option when asbestos materials are deteriorating/damaged or incompatible with future building plans. A professional asbestos removal contractor in Buffalo Grove, Illinois can perform a thorough inspection and risk assessment before recommending the most appropriate solution.

Looking for an asbestos removal contractor in Buffalo Grove, Illinois?

Are you searching for a professional asbestos removal contractor in Buffalo Grove, Illinois that can inspect and safely remove asbestos from your commercial facility? If so, you’ve come to the right place — Axis Response Group is the top choice. Our experienced technicians can evaluate your property and explain your remediation options. Regardless of the size of your property or extent of asbestos contamination, we can get the job done right. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a free on-site assessment.