Why age matters for a cleanup

Commerce City and the adjoining parts of north Denver have industrial buildings from many decades: brick and block structures near the rail lines and the South Platte, mid-century shops and warehouses along the older highways, and newer tilt-up and metal buildings farther north and east. The older a building is, the more likely it contains materials that were common before regulations changed, such as asbestos in floor tile and mastic, pipe and boiler insulation, roofing materials, joint compound, or transite panels.

Restoration after water or fire often involves removing exactly these materials: wet floor tile in offices, damaged roofing, burnt pipe insulation, or wallboard that took on water. Disturbing asbestos-containing material releases fibers and creates a regulated situation. Colorado requires that regulated asbestos work be done by state-certified professionals, and building inspections are commonly needed before renovation or demolition. Check current requirements with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

Lead-based paint may also be present on older steel and masonry. If paint will be sanded, blasted or cut, ask whether testing is needed first.

How testing fits into the cleanup schedule

Immediately
Stop water and secure the building. Emergency drying of unaffected materials and water removal from hard surfaces can usually start without disturbing suspect materials.
First days
A certified inspector samples materials that will be disturbed. Labs return results, often within days; ask about faster turnaround if the loss is time-sensitive.
If results are negative
Tear-out and normal restoration proceed.
If results are positive
A certified abatement contractor removes the affected materials under required controls, and the area is cleared before restoration continues.
Reconstruction
New materials are installed. Keep the inspection and abatement records with the building file.

Materials worth asking about in older buildings

  • Nine-inch or twelve-inch vinyl floor tile and the black mastic under it.
  • Pipe, boiler and duct insulation, especially white or gray wrap.
  • Built-up and asphalt roofing layers, flashing cements and coatings.
  • Cement-type wall and roof panels.
  • Drywall joint compound and textured ceilings in office areas.
  • Fire doors and some older fireproofing on steel.

Questions to ask before demolition begins

  1. Has the building had an asbestos survey, and does it cover the areas being disturbed?
  2. Who will collect samples, and are they state-certified?
  3. What work can continue safely while results are pending?
  4. If abatement is needed, how will it be sequenced with drying and cleaning?

General information for Commerce City, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.