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What is the difference between abatement and restoration?

By: Lisa Zierfuss

April 21, 2017

difference_abatement_restoration

While often lumped together as one category, abatement and restoration projects actually have some key differences, which might help determine the best tools, including tape, for the job.

Restoration refers to a situation where an interior area is being contained to keep dust, dirt or debris in one area, with the end goal of restoring that area to better than its original state. Restoration projects require a tape that will not damage the surfaces to which it’s adhered, while having a strong enough hold to mask areas off and hold up the poly-sheeting that it used to create those barriers.

Abatement, on the other hand, is required for more serious and intensive problems. This could be asbestos removal, mold remediation, major fire damage, or cleaning up methamphetamine labs, for example. In abatement cases, it is important to find a tape that creates a very strong, airtight containment barrier and can hold up poly-sheeting for a long amount of time. It is less important to use a tape that is gentle enough to not leave a residue or damage surfaces that it is applied to, as often times these surfaces will be demolished or stripped down after the area is cleaned up and the hazardous materials removed.

If you are unsure which type of tape is best for your application, consider your specific purpose for it and what the jobsite environment looks like. A good rule of thumb is to find something that is durable and maintains its hold on rough or dirty surfaces. Find some tapes for the trade at Shurtape.com.

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