Can I use duct tape to cover asbestos tape until I can afford to have it removed professionally?
By admin on Oct 21, 2009 in Maintenance & Repairs
henry315_ny asked:
The asbestos is currently attached to an old fashioned “octopuss” (gravity based heating system). In particular, the arms or “runs” that stem from the main unit are covered (or insulated) in asbestos. I was wondering…would it be safe to cover the asbestos tape with duct tape just to prevent particles from becoming airborne in the basement? Will the duct tape melt or otherwise become toxic by doing this? I’m trying to find a middle of the way solution until I can afford the $6,000 cost of having it removed by a professional asbestos removal service. Thank you very much for your input! It is very appreciated:)
The asbestos is currently attached to an old fashioned “octopuss” (gravity based heating system). In particular, the arms or “runs” that stem from the main unit are covered (or insulated) in asbestos. I was wondering…would it be safe to cover the asbestos tape with duct tape just to prevent particles from becoming airborne in the basement? Will the duct tape melt or otherwise become toxic by doing this? I’m trying to find a middle of the way solution until I can afford the $6,000 cost of having it removed by a professional asbestos removal service. Thank you very much for your input! It is very appreciated:)
On Oct 22, 2009, Dalmatian Rescue said:
They make a spray type sealer that penitrates the asbestos and locks it in place. You should be able to find it at a home imporvment store.
On Oct 24, 2009, angelotipton said:
the asbestos is only dangerous if it is loose and becomes airborne … so try not to breathe any particles floating around and try not to disturb the tape if possible if it is in fairly good condition then it is probably safe to cover it, but if the act of taping over it disturbs it causing it to blow around in the air it would be best to leave it alone until a professional abatement technician can remove it for you.
On Oct 25, 2009, edward I said:
Dalmation is correct. If the asbestos is not flaking or airborne, it’s not dangerous. Sealant will do it in any event.
It may last indefinitely, but if you ever sell, it will have to be revealed and removed.
Duct tape will not hold long exposed to heat.
On Oct 26, 2009, baldpeanutlover said:
be care full what ever u do. is your life really worth $6000?
the tape solution would work, for a short time.
if u try anything on your own u must buy a pair of disposable coveralls, good gloves, boots u don’t mind throwing out and a mask (don’t skimp here spend some money, have it fitted by a pro)
use the duct tape to tape the cuffs of the coveralls to your gloves and boots. ventilate the basement well, and make sure u throw out everything when u are done(keep the mask throw out the filters)
On Oct 28, 2009, Frust Parent said:
Asbestos is such a joke. Many states have deregulated alot of its removal.
And $6k- where the heck do you live?! That is alot.
How do you know it is asbestos? Did you test it? If not you DO NOT have an obligation to disclose.
You can seal it though with a high temp sealant (spray) but if it is not friable, just leave it. This stuff is in MILLIONS of houses.
Transite pipe is SUPER common. I do not disagree that it has ben made a “KILLER” bit those old guys in the asbestos lawsuits were working in the dust of it for decades breathing it full tilt. It is of little REAL worry.
But sure- it can be bad. But a spider could kill you faster. Or tripping down the stairs to get to it!
Sorry if I seem flippant about asbestos but after the environmental engineers I’ve paid for the removal of the stuff- I have earned it. I joke with them on my government jobs- thank OSHA for your gold mine. The states and other agencies aren’t really the problem- the worker safety guys who got there rear ends torn up in lawsuits in the 70s are the ones pushing that is the great satan.
On Oct 28, 2009, maria t said:
Don’t remove it!!! It is much safer to leave it alone then raise the dust and start a harzard.
Go to your local store or local contractors and find the proper sealant.