EJS Environmental FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Montgomery County home actually has asbestos?
You can’t tell by looking. Asbestos-containing materials look identical to materials that don’t contain it — the only way to know for certain is through certified lab testing. If your home was built before 1980, which describes a large portion of the housing stock across Montgomery County, there’s a real chance asbestos is present somewhere. We start with a thorough inspection and bulk sampling, then send materials to an accredited lab. Until you have those results, don’t disturb anything you suspect.
Where is asbestos most commonly found in older Pennsylvania homes?
It shows up in more places than most people expect. Asbestos was used in over 3,000 different building materials before restrictions took effect in the late 1970s and 1980s. In residential homes, we most commonly find it in floor and ceiling tiles, pipe insulation, duct insulation, roofing shingles, textured paint, joint compound, plaster, and the gaskets inside older furnaces and boilers. Basements and mechanical rooms tend to be the most concentrated areas, but attics and exterior roofing are also common. A proper inspection covers the full structure — not just the obvious spots.
Can I remove asbestos myself instead of hiring a licensed contractor?
Technically, Pennsylvania law allows a homeowner to remove asbestos from their own single-family residence. But the PA DEP strongly discourages it, and for good reason. Improper removal can release far more fibers into the air than simply leaving the material alone. You’d also be responsible for legal disposal — and asbestos cannot go in a regular dumpster or trash bin. Any contractor you hire must be state-certified. The risk of doing this wrong, both to your health and your legal standing, is significant enough that most homeowners who look into it decide professional abatement is the right call.
What is the difference between asbestos removal and asbestos encapsulation?
Removal means the asbestos-containing material is taken out entirely and disposed of at a licensed facility. Encapsulation means the material is sealed with a specialized coating that prevents fibers from becoming airborne. Encapsulation is a legitimate, EPA-recognized approach — it’s not a shortcut. In fact, when asbestos-containing materials are intact and not crumbling or friable, encapsulation is sometimes the safer option because removal itself can disturb fibers that were previously stable. The right choice depends on the condition of the material, where it’s located, and what you plan to do with the space. We’ll walk you through both options before any work begins.
How much does asbestos removal cost in Montgomery County, PA?
For the Philadelphia metro area, including Montgomery County, most homeowners pay somewhere between $1,156 and $2,695, with an average around $1,925 for residential projects. Interior removal typically runs $5 to $20 per square foot depending on the location and how accessible the material is. Exterior work — roofing or siding — costs more, often $50 to $150 per square foot. Encapsulation is generally cheaper at $2 to $6 per square foot. Permits, disposal fees, and post-abatement testing add to the total. We offer free estimates so you get a clear, honest number before committing to anything.
How long does asbestos removal take from start to finish?
Most small residential jobs are completed in one to three days once work actually begins. The full timeline from your first call to final clearance is typically one to three weeks — that accounts for the initial inspection, lab testing, scheduling, the abatement itself, and post-removal air testing. Larger projects involving multiple rooms or whole-home remediation take longer. We’ll give you a realistic timeline upfront so you can plan accordingly, not a vague estimate that leaves you guessing.
Do I need to leave my home during asbestos abatement?
It depends on where the asbestos is located and the scope of the work. For contained, single-area projects — a basement, a utility room — it’s often possible to remain in other parts of the home while work is underway, provided proper containment is in place. For larger or more invasive projects, temporary displacement is the safer call. We set up HEPA-filtered negative air pressure containment systems to prevent fibers from migrating to other areas of your home. We’ll be direct with you about what makes sense for your specific situation, including any concerns about children or pets.