White insulation wrapped around basement pipes in Kenwood
How to identify asbestos pipe insulation and what to do if it's cracking or falling apart
You found white, chalky insulation wrapped around old pipes in your Kenwood basement. It looks like it's cracking and small pieces are falling to the floor. Many homes built before 1980 in the Cincinnati area used asbestos pipe insulation, and disturbing it releases dangerous fibers into the air.
That white, fibrous material wrapped around your pipes is likely asbestos insulation if your home was built before 1980. Asbestos pipe insulation was common because it resisted heat and fire. It often looks like thick white or gray tape or cloth wrapped around hot water pipes, steam pipes, or furnace ducts. When it ages, it becomes brittle and starts cracking or flaking off.
Testing costs around $200 to $400 for a few samples. If it tests positive, removal typically runs $15 to $25 per linear foot of pipe, depending on how much insulation needs to come off and how accessible the pipes are. Encapsulation (sealing it in place) costs less but isn't always possible if the material is already falling apart.
Stop going into that area immediately and don't touch the insulation. Disturbing asbestos releases fibers you can't see but can inhale. Get it tested first by a certified lab. If it's asbestos, you have two options: professional removal or encapsulation. Central Insulation Systems Inc. can test it and handle either approach safely with proper containment and disposal.
Once it's properly removed or sealed, you can use your basement normally again. The air will be safe to breathe and you won't have to worry about fibers spreading through your home's ventilation system.
What people in Kenwood say
"THEY DID A GOOD JOB AND I THOUGHT THE PRICE WAS REASONABLE."
"I worked with Kevin Con, their field specialist. Kevin talked to me over the phone for quite awhile to make sure that I had a good estimate and knowledge of the procedure. The team came out early and they were efficient in the processes. I would highly recommend them especially because they worked so closely with our roofing team to get the job done in one day."
"I am just so happy. They came out on a Tuesday (the owner Steve and his son) and took a look and had a crew of 2 out for me the next day! They got there at 8:30 am and all was completed by 2:00. The follow up was excellent. I could just go on and on. I am very impressed and want to insulate everything NOW because they were so excellent!"
Other things people in Kenwood ask
how much does asbestos removal cost
Asbestos removal cost depends on square footage, material type, and access difficulty. Pipe insulation runs $15-25 per linear foot. Floor tiles cost $5-15 per square foot. Get three licensed quotes and compare line items, not just total price.
asbestos floor tiles removal
Stop all work immediately. Do not sand, scrape, or break the tiles. Get a sample tested by a certified lab first. If it tests positive, hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. DIY removal is illegal in most areas and dangerous.
can I remove asbestos myself DIY
No. DIY asbestos removal is illegal in most states and extremely dangerous. You need special licenses, containment equipment, and disposal permits. One mistake can contaminate your entire house and put your family at risk.
Ready to talk?
Central Insulation Systems handles asbestos removal in Kenwood and the area around it.