Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of soft and flexible fibers that are resistant to heat, electricity, and corrosion. These qualities make it the perfect material to use in construction, but the fibrous nature also makes it incredibly toxic when inhaled.
Decades of research have proven exposure to asbestos causes cancer and other serious lung diseases. Despite the fact that it was discovered in the early 1900s, it wasn’t acted on until the 1970s.
This is why asbestos was able to play such a central role in American commercial product manufacturing throughout the 20th century. It was used in thousands of products before regulations were finally implemented.
The Most Common Places to Find Asbestos in Your Home
Floor Tiles: Old vinyl floor tiles and the back of vinyl sheet flooring may contain asbestos. Any attempt at removing these tiles on your own and without the proper equipment could release this toxic material into the air and make it hazardous for you to breathe.
Attic Insulation: Older homes, especially those before the 1990s, often had asbestos in the insulation. Disturbing the insulation can spread asbestos fibers into the air, so it's essential to hire a professional asbestos removal service to properly remove the insulation.
Popcorn Ceilings: Textured ceilings, including standard popcorn ceilings, are known to contain asbestos. Scraping the texture off the ceiling is very dangerous to do without a mask and proper ventilation.
Drywall: Today's homes use a newer type of drywall, but older homes may contain asbestos in the drywall. Drilling into the wall to hang a photo or remodel a space will release asbestos fibers into the air and put you at risk.