Mold and Asbestos: What Ottawa Homeowners Should Know Before Renovating
- William Brazeau
- Sep 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 10
Renovations can breathe new life into your home, but they sometimes uncover hidden dangers. Two of the most common issues lurking behind walls, ceilings, or floors are mold and asbestos. Both can pose serious health risks if not handled properly. Before you start tearing down drywall or ripping up flooring, it’s important to know what you might be dealing with.
At PROSERV Solutions, a trusted renovation company in Ottawa, we’ve seen firsthand how mold and asbestos can turn a simple project into a serious safety concern. Here’s what every homeowner should know before starting renovations.
Understanding Mold in Homes
Why Mold Grows
Mold thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. Leaks, flooding, or high humidity can create perfect conditions for growth.
Health Risks
Exposure to mold can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and worsening of asthma symptoms. For people with compromised immune systems, mold can be especially dangerous.
Signs of Mold
Musty odors
Visible black, green, or white patches on walls or ceilings
Water stains or bubbling paint
If you suspect mold, professional testing and remediation are strongly recommended.
Understanding Asbestos in Homes
Where It’s Found
Asbestos was widely used in Canadian homes built before the 1990s. It can be found in:
Ceiling tiles and insulation
Floor tiles and adhesives
Drywall joint compound
Popcorn ceilings
Pipe insulation
Health Risks
When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and inhaled. Long-term exposure is linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Even small-scale DIY demolition can release dangerous fibers into your home.
Why Professional Removal Matters
Both mold and asbestos require specialized removal techniques and protective equipment. Attempting DIY removal is unsafe and may make the problem worse. At PROSERV Solutions in Ottawa, we are trained in safe abatement methods that protect both your health and your home.
We follow strict regulations for containment, disposal, and air-quality testing so your renovation can move forward without risk.
Renovating Safely
If you’re planning a renovation in an older Ottawa home:
Get an inspection before demolition begins.
Don’t disturb suspicious materials until they’ve been tested.
Work with licensed professionals who can safely remediate mold or remove asbestos.
Budget for abatement if your home was built before the 1990s—it’s better to be prepared.
Renovations should improve your home—not jeopardize your health. With awareness and professional guidance, mold and asbestos don’t have to derail your plans.
If you’re planning a renovation in Ottawa, contact PROSERV Solutions today. Our team specializes in safe mold and asbestos abatement, so you can move forward with confidence.