Signs Your House May Contain Asbestos

Up until the 1980s, asbestos was a popular building material in U.S. homes and buildings. Because of its heat resistance and fireproofing properties, asbestos was commonly used in insulation, flooring, roofing, and even some paints. However, it was discovered that asbestos fibers posed serious health risks when inhaled, causing life-threatening lung diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and cancer. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned most asbestos-containing products in the United States in 1989. Unfortunately, many homes may still contain asbestos today. In this article, we’ll talk more about the health risks of asbestos exposure and go over some signs to look out for that your home could contain dangerous asbestos. If you have any questions about asbestos or would like a free estimate on an asbestos test for your house in Massachusetts, please contact DCM Environmental Testing Co. today!

The Health Risks of Asbestos

Asbestos has been linked to some serious life-threatening illnesses. Living in a home with asbestos can expose you to dangerous fibers, especially if the materials are damaged or disturbed. When asbestos fibers become airborne and are inhaled, they can get trapped in the lungs, leading to long-term health issues. Prolonged exposure to asbestos has been linked to serious conditions like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These diseases may not show symptoms for many years, making it important to be aware of the risks if you suspect asbestos in your home.

How to Identify Asbestos in Your Home

While it is impossible to tell for sure whether or not your home contains asbestos without getting a professional test, some of the most common indicators that your home contains asbestos include:

• Homes Built Before 1989: If your house was built before 1989, there’s a possibility it contains asbestos in various building materials. Even though asbestos may be present, it’s generally not dangerous unless disturbed or damaged.
• White Tape on Heating Ducts: Check your heating ducts for white tape. This distinctive tape with a fibrous appearance was often used in older homes and may contain asbestos, especially if it’s starting to fray or peel.
• Acoustic Ceiling Tiles or "Popcorn" Ceilings: Homes with ceiling tiles or textured "popcorn" ceilings could contain asbestos, especially if installed before the mid-1980s. Any visible wear or damage could release harmful fibers.
• Nine-Inch by Nine-Inch Floor Tiles: Floor tiles that measure nine by nine inches were frequently made with asbestos. While not all tiles of this size contain asbestos, it’s worth getting them checked, especially if they’re cracked or deteriorating.
• Vermiculite Insulation in the Attic: If your attic contains vermiculite insulation, it may be contaminated with asbestos. This insulation was commonly used in older homes, and if you suspect it contains asbestos, you should have it tested by a professional!

Contact DCM Environmental For Asbestos Testing Services in Massachusetts!

If you believe your home contains asbestos, it's crucial for the health and safety of your family to test for it as soon as possible! At DCM Environmental, we provide Massachusetts and the surrounding region with professional, unbiased testing services for asbestos and other hazardous materials. Contact us today to get a free asbestos testing estimate by calling us at (617) 481-5782 or by filling out the contact form on our website!