A Critical Process For Demolitions & Renovations
Although most asbestos manufacturing was banned in 1978, certain asbestos-containing materials are still legally used in modern construction, meaning even newer homes and buildings can pose a risk. If you’re planning renovations or demolition, proper testing is essential to protect your health, avoid costly delays, and stay compliant with state regulations.
While Encompass Environmental does not perform asbestos testing in-house, we maintain a vetted list of trusted, certified testing companies in Western Colorado and Eastern Utah.
Contact us, and we’ll connect you with professionals who can provide accurate lab results before any work begins.
When is Testing Required?
In Grand Junction and Western Colorado, all building permits are processed through the Mesa County Building Department, and asbestos rules are strictly enforced.
For any structural demolition, Colorado requires a state demolition notification to the CDPHE along with a 10-working-day waiting period—even if your inspection shows no asbestos.
In Eastern Utah and throughout Grand County, demolition permits require both an asbestos inspection report and the official 10-Day Demolition form.
Utah’s DAQ regulations mandate that a certified asbestos inspector complete the survey before any work begins, followed by a demolition notification and a 10-working-day wait.
Common Asbestos Exposure Scenarios
It doesn’t take a major renovation of your home for asbestos exposure to occur. Cleaning certain areas of your home or performing minor alterations can still put you at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers. Here are common asbestos exposure scenarios you should be aware of:
Removing Popcorn Ceilings
Unfortunately, asbestos is commonly mixed in with popcorn ceilings, If you scrape popcorn ceilings, you may be at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers, as well as exposing your eyes to the harmful particles.
Cutting Insulation on Pipes
Asbestos is a great insulator. For example, pipes are often wrapped in asbestos insulation, so beware of cutting into any insulation.
Drilling into Drywall
Asbestos is a common component that makes up drywall, so if you drill into, or are renovating the walls within your residence, you may disperse asbestos fibers contained in the drywall, into the air.
Removing Vinyl Floor Tiles
In the 1950's especially, vinyl floor tiles containing asbestos were popular. If your home was built during that era and you're planning to scrape the tiles, have the area tested first, rather than being exposed.
Renovating the Attic
Asbestos was commonly used to insulate attics, in older homes. While you may be tempted to remove and replace asbestos insulation with fiberglass insulation on your own, don't risk it. Contact us and we'll properly remove and dispose of any asbestos insulation.
Cleaning the Chimney's Flue
Asbestos is naturally fire-resistant. As a result, asbestos was used to line the flue (the passageway of your chimney) to help reduce fire risk, in older homes. If you attempt to clean the flue, you may dislodge asbestos fibers. Even if you rarely use your fireplace, if your chimney experiences downdrafts, then asbestos fibers may be infiltrating your home's interior.
Common Asbestos Exposure Scenarios
Once your asbestos test results are in from one of our recommended providers, Encompass Environmental handles the next steps start to finish.
We’ll review the report, develop a clear scope, file required state notifications, set up sealed containment, perform abatement and proper disposal, and arrange third-party clearance testing—bringing your property back to safe, compliant condition. Serving Grand Junction and the wider Western Colorado–Eastern Utah region.
Asbestos Testing FAQs
Do Encompass Environmental perform the testing themselves??
While we don't provide this service ourself, Encompass Environmental coordinates independent, accredited inspectors and labs.
We handle scheduling and then guide you on next steps based on the results without needing to go back and forth between testing and abatement companies.
When should I test for asbestos?
Before any renovation, demolition, or invasive repair in an older or unknown-age building; after fire/water damage; or whenever you see damaged, crumbly, or suspicious materials.
What materials commonly contain asbestos?
Asbestos may be present in the following areas of your residence:
- Pipe insulation
- Popcorn ceilings
- Vinyl floor tiles
- Drywall
- Attics
- Chimney flues
Many people assume that asbestos and asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are easy to identify and remove. However, asbestos fibers are microscopic, and you can't always tell that a material contains asbestos by sight alone.
- Pipe insulation
How is testing done?
A licensed inspector conducts a walkthrough, collects small bulk samples of suspect materials, and sends them to an accredited lab (typically PLM analysis). Air testing (PCM/TEM) may be used for clearance or special cases.
How long do results take?
Most projects receive lab results in 24–72 hours. Rush / same-day options are often available too.
What happens if asbestos is found?
That's where we'll take over and provide a clear abatement plan, schedule containment!
