Mapleton School District Asbestos Removal
How We Tackled the Job Through Storms and Delays
Preparing for a Major Asbestos Abatement Project
In early December, we got a call about a significant asbestos abatement consultation. The Mapleton School District was preparing to renovate their combined middle and high school, a full overhaul to get the building back in shape. Before they could start the renovation, they had to perform asbestos removal. And there was a lot of it: tile under carpet, old wood flooring, and insulation tucked away in the attic.
At the pre-bid walk, ten other abatement crews and construction workers were on site, clipboards in hand. After Mapleton School District reviewed all the bids, they selected Central Oregon Disaster Restoration for the project.
Getting the Crew and Equipment Ready
By February, it was time to get moving. We loaded our truck with everything we’d need: rolls of plastic, HEPA units, suits, gloves, tools, and a scissor lift. It weighed about 10,000 pounds, ready for the trip west from Bend to Mapleton.
The Long, Challenging Drive to Mapleton
Normally, the drive to Mapleton would be 3.5-hours. Avalanche risk closed The McKenzie Pass and fallen trees blocked highway 58. We scrambled for alternate routes and finally found one, but the trip took eight hours of slow, cautious towing through rough weather.
Working in a Rain-Soaked School
When we arrived, the rain had already settled in. The school still has partial occupancy, so we built containment areas in stages, which took nearly a month.
To keep our licensed asbestos abatement specialists safe, we sealed areas with plastic. We also checked for negative pressure and set up decontamination chambers. This protected the school as well as CODR staff from risk of exposure. We also managed water intrusion from the heavy rain.
Rainiest March in Mapleton History
March brought nearly an inch of rain per day, creating constant challenges. Moisture impacted our pressure systems, and the crew frequently re-taped and reinforced seals to maintain safety standards.
Removing 120 Cubic Yards of Asbestos Material
Once demolition started, we carefully took out over 10,000 square feet of vinyl asbestos tile. Much of it hid under the carpets, along with the wood floors underneath.
In the attic, we dealt with asbestos insulation in tight spaces. Workers bagged, sealed, and transported each load to the disposal site. The CODR crews used four full 30-foot roll-off trailers.
Finding Balance on a Tough Job
Even on challenging projects, our crew finds ways to recharge. Some fished along the nearby river, others tossed a football around, and a few explored the coast after work. That balance kept spirits high despite the weather and long days.
Why Proper Asbestos Abatement Matters
Asbestos fibers and other types of asbestos can remain airborne and cause serious health issues if disturbed. That’s why every step we took, from asbestos containing waste equipment to clearance, followed strict DEQ safety regulations. Our abatement crews do not take shortcuts and will not cut corners.
The Job is Complete Safely and Successfully
The Mapleton Middle/High School is now free of asbestos. This allows safe renovations for students, staff, and the community. It wasn’t easy, but we show up, adapt, and finish the job right, no matter the obstacles.
Need Professional Asbestos Removal in Oregon?
We have the gear, the crew, and the experience to handle asbestos abatement projects of any size. Call Central Oregon Disaster Restoration today, we’ll go wherever the road (or river) takes us.
Call Central Oregon Disaster Restoration at (541) 318-7853 for expert cleanup, emergency repairs, and full restoration. We’re available 24/7 and ready to help in Bend, Redmond, Prineville, La Pine, Madras, and surrounding areas.