What Is Asbestos, and Why Was It Used?

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was once celebrated for its heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. From the late 1800s to the 1990s, it was widely used in construction and home renovation materials, including insulation, roofing, flooring, and more. Asbestos was even found in things like paints and adhesives.

However, by the late 20th century, research began linking asbestos exposure to serious health issues, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos is only dangerous when the fibers become airborne, which can happen if the material is damaged or disturbed during renovation or repair work.

Where Can Asbestos Be Found in Older Homes?

If the house you're buying was built before the year 2000, there's a chance that some areas of the home may contain asbestos. Here's where to look:

1. Flooring

Vinyl tiles (especially those installed before the 1980s) and older linoleum floors are common places where asbestos can be found. These materials were durable and affordable, which made them popular in homes built between the 1950s and 1980s. If you're buying an older property with vinyl tiles or linoleum flooring, it’s important to have them checked for asbestos, particularly if the floor is damaged or cracked.

2. Insulation

Asbestos was frequently used in insulation materials, particularly in older attics, basements, and around pipes or boilers. Loose-fill insulation, pipe insulation, and even spray-on insulation could contain asbestos. This is a major concern if you're considering renovating the attic or removing old insulation.

3. Textured Ceilings (Popcorn Ceilings / Artex)

If the home you're looking at has textured ceilings—often referred to as "popcorn" ceilings or “Artex”—these could contain asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in these ceilings and walls for its fire-resistant qualities. Homes built before the 1990s are most likely to have this material, and disturbing or scraping them can release asbestos fibers into the air.

4. Roofing Materials

Many older homes have roofing materials that contain asbestos, such as roof tiles, cement siding, cement garages and roofs and roofing felt. If you're planning on replacing the roof or doing any work to the exterior, be aware that the materials may contain asbestos, and special precautions will be necessary.

5. Walls and Ceiling Tiles

Some homes, especially those built before the 1970s, may have asbestos-containing wall panels, ceiling tiles, or even the plaster used in walls. If you're renovating or removing old wall coverings, this is a potential source of asbestos exposure.

6. Electric Meter Panels

Asbestos was used in electric meter boards. Examples include RTS electric meters. The boarding is an insulation board to prevent electrical conductivity 

7. Boilers and Furnaces

Older heating systems, such as boilers, furnaces, and ducts, may have asbestos insulation , insulation boards or gaskets. If these systems are still in place and you're planning to renovate or replace the heating system, it's important to check for asbestos-containing materials.

The Dangers of Disturbing Asbestos

Asbestos itself is not dangerous if it's left undisturbed. However, once it is damaged or disturbed—whether through drilling, sanding, or any activity that releases dust—the microscopic asbestos fibers become airborne. Inhaling these fibers can cause serious health problems, including:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, leading to scarring of lung tissue.
• Lung Cancer: Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of developing lung cancer, particularly among smokers.
• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.

These health risks are why it's so crucial to avoid disturbing asbestos materials unless you have professional guidance. Renovation work in areas with asbestos should always be left to certified asbestos removal professionals who are trained to handle it safely.

If you suspect the house you are buying contains asbestos , the best option is to get an Asbestos Homebuyer Survey completed first. Contact us for a free , no obligation quotation to see how we can help.