What Types of Housing Materials Can Contain Asbestos?
Any house constructed prior to 1980 could contain asbestos – a material which has been directly associated with the cancer mesothelioma. It is important that samples be taken from the house to be tested and analyzed by a qualified lab prior to demolition or remodeling. There are many materials in a home built prior to 1980 that can contain asbestos. Both plaster and drywall can contain asbestos. Sprayed on texturing may also contain asbestos. Many flooring materials can contain asbestos, and in some cases in older homes, there could be many layers of flooring materials – each layer possibly containing asbestos. Older boilers can be insulated with asbestos. Seams and medal ducting can be covered with asbestos tape. Roofing materials can contain asbestos. For the safety of everyone involved, it is important that older homes be surveyed for asbestos prior to the beginning of any work. Any asbestos containing materials must be removed by workers who are trained in asbestos removal and wear
