New Homeowners Should Be Aware of Asbestos Risks

As a new homeowner or potential buyer, it is unlikely that you are entirely familiar with the inner materials of an unfamiliar home. One of the biggest surprises new homeowners confront is asbestos. Indeed, asbestos is now banned for use in the United States but many older structures still contain asbestos-containing materials, which are generally safe, but homeowners should be aware of where they are should they become hazardous.

Asbestos was included in thousands of construction compounds and exists in nearly 80% of homes built prior to 1978. Common asbestos materials include attic insulation, ceiling tiles, and pipe liners. Asbestos was particularly adept at insulation and prevention of heat transfer and was used extensively until adverse health effects began to manifest in those who worked with the material frequently.

It is only when asbestos containing materials are damaged or very old that they become hazardous. Home inspectors or asbestos abatement companies should be able to identify these circumstances and advise you on a course of action. When asbestos material is unstable, it releases asbestos fibers into the air, potentially endangering those in the vicinity.