Affordable DIY asbestos test?

edinburgher

I've been looking online for DIY asbestos tests (remove small sample, cover underlying area, send to a lab) and the going rate seems to be in the region of £55 for any required equipment and a couple of tests.

Does anyone know of a more affordable (but reliable) supplier/lab? DIY costs are mounting!

Risteard

I would certainly not suggest DIYing Asbestos surveys!

TheCyclingProgrammer

What in particular are you trying to test?

stator

You can send samples of things like Artex direct, you don't need a kit
http://www.diyasbestostesting.co.uk/product/asbestos-testing-kit/
You can pick up the dust masks and disposable gloves and bags etc from toolstation or screwfix, doesn't need to be anything special. Use a vacuum with HEPA filter to clear up and possibly a HEPA air purifier in the room too.
Costs £25/40/55 for 1/2/3 samples etc

I've just done it and it was positive for my artex

edinburgher

TheCyclingProgrammer wrote: »

What in particular are you trying to test?

Artex.....

TheCyclingProgrammer

edinburgher wrote: »

Artex.....

Thought you might be. Are you planning to rip it down or drill through it for some reason? Otherwise asbestos-containing Artex is pretty benign and safe it undisturbed. We've just had all our Artex ceilings skimmed (except one which had to be boarded over first to support the lathe and plaster ceiling). Hate the stuff.

edinburgher

We will rip it down if we can. Our entire hall and staircase is a nightmare landscape of whorls, ridges and fans. If not, we'll need to get it filled somehow, but it's very deep.

TheCyclingProgrammer

edinburgher wrote: »

We will rip it down if we can. Our entire hall and staircase is a nightmare landscape of whorls, ridges and fans. If not, we'll need to get it filled somehow, but it's very deep.

Nothing a decent plasterer couldn't take care of. One of our ceilings had a deep pattern on it, they gave it a tight bonding coat first before skimming it. Looks great now.

stator

If you're removing it just use this stuff
http://www.toolstation.com/shop/p83638?table=no
then it doesn't matter whether it's asbestosy or not, as it's removed as a liquid with no loose fibres.

edinburgher

I'd still need to dispose of the liquid as asbestos waste. Have you used said product? I ask as there are a lot of patently fake reviews for it online (people joining forums where there sole post ever is to praise it etc.)

stator

Not yet, but I plan on using it in the near future.