How Do You Tell The Difference Between Slate And Asbestos Sidings?
Slate siding and asbestos siding are two entirely different items. Both were used extensively in the construction industry until the 1970’s when asbestos was banned. Step 1: Asbestos cement siding is a mixture of Portland cement and asbestos fibers. The cement binds the fibers into a hard mass. The Johns-Manville company developed asbestos cement in 1905. The original purpose of the product was for use in areas where extreme heat or fire needed to be contained, such as chimneys, walls and ceiling. The next natural step was the creation of siding and shingles. The addition of asbestos to siding materials also increased its durability and strength. Step 2: Ways to tell if the siding on your house possibly contains asbestos: • Installation of the siding prior to 1978 would suggest that it probably contain asbestos • Asbestos cement usually came from the factory painted white on one side • Home owners would occasionally paint over the siding when it became weather; if there are several lay
