What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Found in Old Homes?

Asbestos is a group of silicate minerals that form long, thin fibers. These fibers are strong, resist heat and fire, and do not conduct electricity, which made them attractive for construction. In older homes, asbestos appears in many forms, from loose-fill insulation to rigid boards.

The danger comes when asbestos materials become damaged or disturbed. Fibers can then become airborne, and inhaling them over time can cause serious lung disease. If the material is intact and left alone, it usually poses no immediate risk.

Asbestos can be hidden in many places you might not expect. Common spots include attic insulation, boiler and furnace insulation, and the backing on old linoleum. It also appears in drywall joint compound and in some paints and patching compounds.

Before any renovation or demolition, you need to know what is in the materials you plan to disturb. A professional inspection can identify suspect materials and recommend testing. Never start breaking walls or floors without checking first.

• Check around pipes, boilers, and ducts
• Look at ceiling tiles and plaster
• Inspect floor tiles and backing
• Examine siding and roofing
• Consider old window glazing and putty

Water damage can complicate asbestos issues. A leak that soaks ceiling tiles or insulation can cause them to sag, crack, or crumble. That damage can release asbestos fibers into the air, especially during cleanup or repair.

If you have water damage in an older home, you need to consider asbestos before any drying or demolition work. A water damage inspection can help you understand the risks. The pros who handle structural drying or extraction will take precautions if asbestos is present.

• Do not disturb wet asbestos materials
• Turn off HVAC systems to limit fiber spread
• Keep children and pets away from the area
• Use plastic sheeting to isolate the space
• Contact a water damage pro for safe cleanup