Asbestos is a hazardous material that was commonly used in construction materials and household products until the 1970s.
It is now known to cause a range of serious illnesses, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Unfortunately, asbestos is still present in many buildings today, especially older ones.
But what does asbestos look like and how do you know if your building has asbestos contamination? Let’s break it down.
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that is found in rocks and soil. It has been used extensively in construction materials and other products because of its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and fire. Asbestos fibers are tiny and invisible to the naked eye, so it’s essential to know what materials contain asbestos.
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What does asbestos look like?
Asbestos can be found in many materials, including insulation, roofing, siding, ceiling tiles, flooring, and adhesives. Asbestos fibers are so small that they can only be seen under a microscope, which makes identifying it visually impossible. However, there might be a few signs to indicate the presence of asbestos.
- Color: One way to recognize asbestos is by its color. It’s usually gray, white, or brown, with a dull shine. Asbestos fibers may also be present in materials that are colorful, such as yellow, green, or blue. However, keep in mind that color alone is not an accurate indicator of asbestos, and some non-asbestos materials may have the same color.
- Texture: Another way to identify asbestos is by its texture. Asbestos fibers are unique in that they are strong, flexible, and durable. Many asbestos-containing materials have a fibrous, fluffy texture, which is distinct from non-asbestos materials. However, this visual cue is not always clear-cut, and some asbestos-containing materials may have a smooth or hard texture.
- Date of Construction: A third way to recognize asbestos is to consider the date of construction. If your building was built before the 1980s, there’s a high chance that it may contain asbestos. Although some newer buildings may still contain asbestos due to its enduring fire-suppression and insulation qualities.
- Hire An Expert: A fourth way to identify asbestos is to hire a reputable asbestos testing service. Certified training programs prepare certified asbestos experts to identify asbestos in various forms, as well as create safe working environments when exposed to asbestos.
Where can asbestos be found?
Asbestos can be found in many areas of a building, including insulation, pipes, and ductwork. It can also be present in wall and ceiling tiles, vinyl floor tiles, cement products, and roofing materials. Asbestos is often found in older buildings, especially those constructed before the late 1970s.
It’s important to remember that materials containing asbestos are not harmful unless the fibers are released into the air and inhaled.
Keep Reading: How long does asbestos abatement take?
The dangers of asbestos exposure
Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These diseases often have a long latency period, meaning that symptoms may not appear for several decades after exposure.
Unfortunately, many people who were exposed to asbestos in the past are still developing these diseases today.
How to protect yourself from asbestos
The best protection against asbestos is early detection and removal. If you are unsure if a material contains asbestos, it’s best to assume that it does and to have it tested by a professional. If asbestos is found, it should be removed immediately by a trained and licensed asbestos abatement contractor.
If you’re planning to renovate or demolish an older building, it’s essential to have it inspected for asbestos before starting any work. Protective gear like masks, gloves, and coveralls should be worn while handling any suspicious materials.
