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 protective clothing and a respirator. The safe removal of asbestos should be considered prior to remodeling or demolition of any structure.

Remodeling an Older Home

In recent years, many factors have led to the increase in home renovation projects. In some cases, the dream of owning a luxury home can be obtained less expensively by remodeling or salvaging an older home. There are, however, many factors that should be considered before making this decision. One very important subject that should be investigated is the possibility of asbestos within existing materials of the older home.

Why Should Housing Contractors Be Aware of Asbestos?

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that is very tough. If asbestos is disturbed during renovations or demolitions, workers could breathe in asbestos fibers. If workers breathe in asbestos fibers, their lungs can suffer permanent damage and they can get lung cancer. This lung cancer is commonly referred to as mesothelioma.

More Information About Mesothelioma

Although very rare, the lung cancer, mesothelioma, is a very serious disease. Mesothelioma affects the inside lining of the chest cavity and is directly associated with asbestos exposure. Please refer to the brief history or mesothelioma for more information. There are many breakthroughs in the treatment of mesothelioma, such as the drug Altima and a new drug Vinflunine (pronounced VIN-floo-neen), that was recently tested in Europe for the treatment of mesothelioma.

For more information, please refer to the National Cancer Institute website - Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers.

Consult a Professional

If you are a loved one suspect any asbestos exposure, it is important that a health care professional be consulted immediately.