Non-Friable Abatement in Charleston, SC

Asbestos Abatement in North Charleston, SC

What is Non-Friable Asbestos?

Non-friable asbestos refers to asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that are bound tightly in a solid matrix, making them less likely to release airborne fibers unless they are, drilled, sanded, or broken. While generally safer than friable asbestos, improper handling can still release hazardous fibers.

Is Non-Friable Asbestos Dangerous?

Although less likely to become airborne, non-friable asbestos can become friable over time due to wear, damage, or exposure to heat and moisture. When disturbed, it can still cause asbestos-related diseases such as:

  • Mesothelioma – A rare and aggressive cancer of the lung and abdominal linings.
  • Asbestosis – Scarring of lung tissue, causing chronic breathing problems.
  • Lung Cancer – Non-friable asbestos exposure has been linked to a higher risk of lung cancer.
  • Pleural Thickening – Hardening and scarring of the lung lining, leading to chest pain and breathlessness.

Where is Non-Friable Asbestos Found?

Non-friable asbestos is commonly found in older buildings and industrial settings, particularly in:

  • Vinyl floor tiles and linoleum with associated mastics
  • Asbestos cement sheets (transite siding panels, pipes, and roofing materials)
  • Gaskets and brake pads
  • Bituminous adhesives, mastics, and sealants
  • Asbestos-reinforced plastics and composites


How is Non-Friable Asbestos Removed?

Although non-friable asbestos is more stable, removal must follow strict procedures to prevent fiber release, especially if the material is damaged or will be disturbed by renovation or demolition.

1. Site Inspection & Risk Assessment

A licensed asbestos inspector tests the material to confirm if it contains asbestos. If confirmed, an abatement contractor creates a removal plan that complies with EPA, OSHA, and local regulations.

2. Wetting & Encapsulation

  • Encapsulation: A sealant is applied to bind the asbestos fibers in place and prevent them from becoming airborne.
  • Wetting Method: Non-friable asbestos is sprayed with water mixed with a surfactant to minimize dust release.

3. Controlled Cutting & Handling

Unlike friable asbestos, non-friable materials may be cut, removed in sections, or carefully dismantled, provided they do not become friable in the process.

  • Specialized low-speed saws and hand tools are used to prevent fiber release.
  • HEPA-filtered vacuums are used to contain and clean up dust during removal.

4. Waste Containment & Transport

  • Removed materials are wrapped in plastic sheeting, double-bagged, and labeled as asbestos waste.
  • They are then transported to an EPA-approved asbestos disposal site.

5. Final Cleanup & Air Testing

  • HEPA vacuums and wet-wiping methods are used to clean the area.
  • Air quality tests ensure fiber levels are safe before reoccupying the site.


Can You Remove Non-Friable Asbestos Yourself?

Although considered less dangerous than friable asbestos, non-friable asbestos can still pose serious health risks if damaged, cut, or disturbed. It is bonded into solid materials like floor tiles, roofing, or siding, but when these materials break or deteriorate, they can release harmful fibers into the air. That’s why we strongly recommend consulting with a certified asbestos abatement professional before attempting any removal yourself. Proper handling and disposal require specialized training and equipment. For your safety and the safety of those around you, always rely on professionals to manage non-friable asbestos materials.

Is Non-Friable Asbestos Safe if Left Alone?

Yes, if it remains undisturbed and is in good condition. However, if non-friable asbestos materials become damaged or will be affected by renovations, they should be professionally removed or encapsulated.

Who to Contact for Non-Friable Asbestos Abatement?

If you suspect non-friable asbestos in your property, consult a licensed asbestos abatement contractor to assess risks and ensure safe handling and removal.

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You can arrange an appointment or make an enquiry by phone or email, orget in touch to us via our contact form.

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Frequently AskED Questions

Take a moment to read answers to our most frequently asked questions about our services.

  • What happens if you breathe in asbestos once?

    There is no safe level of exposure  but breathing asbestos fibers may raise your chance of developing numerous dangerous illnesses, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Asbestos exposure may raise the risk of digestive system malignancies, such as colon cancer.

  • What is asbestos found in homes built between the 1940s and 1980s?

    Asbestos was commonly used in homes built between the 1940s and 1980s due to its heat resistance and durability. It can be found in insulation (walls, attics, and around pipes), vinyl floor tiles, ceiling textures (like popcorn ceilings), drywall joint compound, roofing materials, siding, and HVAC duct insulation. Disturbing these materials can release harmful fibers, so it's important to consult a certified asbestos professional before starting any renovations or removals.

  • What is asbestos found in commercial building?

    In commercial buildings, asbestos was widely used for its fire-resistant and insulating properties. Common materials that may contain asbestos include pipe and boiler insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, spray-applied fireproofing, roofing materials, HVAC duct insulation, and wall or ceiling joint compounds. These materials were especially prevalent in buildings constructed before the 1980s. Due to the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, it's crucial to have any suspect materials inspected by a certified professional before any renovation or demolition work.

  • Can mesothelioma be cured if caught early?

    Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, treatment choices and prognosis increase if the cancer is detected early. However, because the interval between first being exposed to asbestos and being diagnosed with mesothelioma is typically between 20 and 50 years, the disease is usually discovered when it is advanced.

  • Why are popcorn ceilings bad?

    Before the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prohibited it in 1977, asbestos was commonly used in textured paint for acoustical ceilings in most homes. If your ceiling tests positive for asbestos, it's best to have it removed by a professional.

Cities We Proudly Service

Click on the dropdown below to see all the cities we provide non-friable asbestos contracting services.

  • Service Areas

    Charleston County

    • Awendaw, SC
    • Charleston, SC
    • Folly Beach, SC
    • Hollywood, SC
    • Isle Of Palms, SC
    • James Island, SC
    • Kiawah Island, SC
    • Lincolnville, SC
    • Mcclellanville, SC
    • Meggett, SC
    • Mount Pleasant, SC
    • North Charleston, SC
    • Ravenel, SC
    • Rockville, SC
    • Seabrook Island, SC
    • Sullivan's Island, SC

    Berkeley County

    • Bonneau Beach, SC
    • Bonneau, SC
    • Daniel Island, SC
    • Goose Creek, SC
    • Hanahan, SC
    • Jamestown, SC
    • Ladson, SC
    • Moncks Corner, SC
    • Pinopolis, SC
    • Russellville, SC
    • Sangaree, SC
    • St. Stephen, SC

    Dorchester County

    • Harleyville, SC
    • Reevesville, SC
    • Ridgeville, SC
    • St. George, SC
    • Summerville, SC

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Address: 125 Bud Lane Ladson Charleston, SC 29486

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Servicing North Charleston and all of South Carolina

EAS Environmental provides many services related to environmental hazardous abatement and cleanup as well as solving moisture control issues.

Related Services

Please see our most requested services listed below. EAS Environmental is here for you when you need asbestos or lead abatement, or moisture control service to prevent mold growth.

Asbestos Removal

With asbestos removal services, you'll never again have to worry about this hazardous substance that could wreak havoc on your health and wellbeing. Whether its in a private residence or commercial setting, we're a licensed and certified abatement firm that will remove asbestos from anywhere it may be found! 

Demolition Services

It's hard to find a good demolition company, especially if you're in an emergency situation. We are the best demolition company around, and we can handle any job big or small. Our team of experts have years of experience under their belt so they'll be able to get your project done right the first time. 

Disaster Restoration: Fire and Water Damage Restoration


When disaster strikes, fast action is critical. If your home or business has suffered fire or smoke damage, don’t wait—EAS Environmental is here to help. Our expert team provides responsive and prompt fire and damage restoration services to help you recover quickly and safely. Call us today to learn more about our fire damage repair services near you!

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