Do You Need an Asbestos Test for That Colorado Garage Demolition? (Yes, Probably.)
So, you're finally ready to tear down that old, leaning garage or clear out that ancient shed in the backyard. Maybe you're dreaming of a new ADU, a bigger workspace, or just a fresh start. It's an exciting project, but many Colorado homeowners hit an unexpected snag when they go to the city or county permit office: the requirement for a certified asbestos inspection.
This isn't just a bureaucratic hurdle; it's a critical safety step mandated by Colorado state regulations. At Colorado Asbestos Inspections, LLC, we specialize in making this process as smooth and straightforward as possible for your residential outbuilding demolitions. Let’s dive into why that inspection is probably a non-negotiable step for your project.
Why Your Garage (or Shed) Needs an Asbestos Inspection in Colorado
It's a common misconception that asbestos is only a concern for large, industrial buildings. The truth is, asbestos was a widely used, inexpensive, and durable building material in residential construction well into the late 1980s. This means that virtually any detached structure built before 1990—and sometimes even after—is a candidate for asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
In Colorado, specifically, Regulation 8 governs asbestos abatement and demolition. This regulation generally requires that any structure being demolished undergo a thorough asbestos survey by a certified inspector. This isn't about the size of the building, but the potential risk of releasing hazardous fibers during demolition.
Common Asbestos Hideouts in Garages, Sheds, and Barns
You might think, "It's just a shed, what could be in there?" The answer might surprise you. Asbestos was integrated into many building components for its fire resistance, strength, and insulation properties. For detached outbuildings, we frequently find asbestos in:
Exterior Siding: Especially "Transite" panels, cement shingles, or even some stucco mixes.
Roofing Materials: Including asphalt shingles, tar paper, and roofing mastics/cements.
Insulation: Vermiculite insulation in attics or walls, often found in older workshops.
Floor Tiles & Mastic: Vinyl floor tiles (especially 9x9 inch) and the black adhesive used beneath them in converted spaces.
Window Glazing/Caulking: The sealants around older window panes.
Drywall & Joint Compound: If the interior was ever finished to create a workshop or living space.
The presence of any of these materials means that, if disturbed during demolition, asbestos fibers could become airborne, posing a serious health risk.
What Happens if I Skip the Inspection?
Trying to bypass the asbestos inspection isn't just risky for your health; it can lead to significant project delays and financial penalties:
Permit Denial: Your city or county building department will almost certainly deny your demolition permit application without a certified asbestos report.
Stop Work Orders: If you start demolition without a permit and an inspector finds evidence of asbestos, you'll face a costly "Stop Work Order" and potentially heavy fines from state or local authorities.
Health Hazards: Most importantly, disturbing asbestos without proper precautions can expose you, your family, your neighbors, and your contractors to dangerous fibers, leading to long-term health issues.
Your Easy Path to a Demolition Permit: How We Help
At Colorado Asbestos Inspections, LLC, we understand you want to get your project moving. We specialize in efficient, accurate, and compliant asbestos surveys for residential outbuildings like garages, sheds, and barns.
Our process is straightforward:
Schedule Your Site Visit: We arrange a convenient time for one of our certified inspectors to visit your property.
Professional Sampling: We collect representative samples from the suspected materials, adhering strictly to Colorado's random sampling regulations to ensure a legally valid report.
Lab Analysis & Report: Samples are sent to an accredited lab for analysis. Once results are back (typically 24-48 hours), you receive a clear, comprehensive report ready for your permit application.
We focus on these smaller, residential jobs, meaning your project gets dedicated attention—not an afterthought. We're here to provide the peace of mind and the necessary documentation to ensure your demolition is safe and compliant.
Don't let the permit process become a headache. If you're planning to demolish an old garage, shed, or barn anywhere on the Colorado Front Range, the smartest first step is a professional asbestos inspection. It’s a small investment that protects your health, your wallet, and your project timeline.
Ready to get your demolition permit approved?
Request Your Garage/Shed Asbestos Inspection Quote Today!
Call us directly: 303-246-4587