Transforming a Historic Landmark into a Safe, Livable Home
In the heart of Franklin, Massachusetts, Banner Environmental Services was honored to support a mission-driven project unlike any other—providing professional lead abatement services for Old Colony Habitat for Humanity as they converted the South Franklin Congregational Meeting House into a safe, welcoming home for a local family in need. Built in 1856, the historic white church sat vacant for years before being selected for transformation into a single-family home.
This effort was about more than construction. It was about preserving the integrity of a cherished community landmark while making it safe for modern living. Our team was proud to play a key role in giving new life to this historic structure through safe, regulatory-compliant environmental remediation.
A Partner in Preservation: Supporting Habitat for Humanity
As a longstanding advocate for safe housing and environmental responsibility, Banner Environmental jumped at the opportunity to contribute to this meaningful project. We offered a significant service donation—providing a 30% credit on project costs—as part of our commitment to both public health and community revitalization.
Our contribution helped Habitat for Humanity move closer to its vision: transforming a neglected structure into a vibrant, healthy home, without sacrificing its historical character.
Comprehensive Lead Abatement: What We Removed
Lead-based paint and building materials pose serious health risks, especially to children. To ensure this historic home met today’s health and safety standards, Banner performed an extensive lead abatement scope of work. Our licensed technicians followed all federal and state Lead-Safe guidelines and utilized advanced PPE and containment strategies to safeguard both the worksite and the surrounding community.
Work completed included:
- Interior plaster walls and ceilings: Full removal of all presumed lead-containing plaster on the 1st floor.
- Lead-painted pews and baseboards: Removed with care, with the option for Habitat to preserve select pieces.
- Flooring on both floors: Removed and disposed of due to lead paint contamination.
- Windows, trim, and doors: Lead-painted components were fully removed, with temporary plywood installations to cover openings and preserve building security.
- Bathrooms and stairs: All fixtures, walls, ceilings, and stair components were safely dismantled and removed.
- Second-floor ceiling and wallboard: All non-compliant materials were disposed of in accordance with hazardous waste regulations.
Every ounce of contaminated material was managed as hazardous waste and disposed of in accordance with EPA and MA DEP guidelines. No water from the decontamination process was discharged into the sewer system, ensuring full environmental compliance.
Protecting Workers, Families, and the Future
Our team’s dedication to safety extended beyond material handling. Every Banner technician on this project received training in hazard communication, lead awareness, and the proper use of PPE. We created a controlled work environment to prevent the spread of lead dust and contaminants, ensuring that our work wouldn’t just be compliant—it would be future-proof.
Projects like this serve as a reminder: environmental remediation is about more than meeting codes—it’s about ensuring families can live and thrive without hidden health risks.
Banner’s Role in Community Projects
This project wasn’t just a job. It was a collaboration between professionals and volunteers, between history and progress. Banner Environmental Services is proud to have contributed our expertise to help bring a long-vacant property back to life—and to help make it safe for generations to come.
Whether it’s asbestos abatement, mold remediation, demolition services, or water and fire damage recovery, Banner is always prepared to support organizations doing meaningful work in our communities.
Need Help with a Historic or Hazardous Property?
If you’re facing a renovation involving lead paint, asbestos, mold, or other hazardous materials—trust the licensed professionals at Banner Environmental Services. We’ll keep your team and your timeline safe, compliant, and on track.
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Habitat for Humanity Project Images
