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Asbestos was most commonly produced and integrated into building products from the 1920s to the late 1980s. In reality, asbestos use should have ceased much sooner because asbestos was linked to cancer in studies produced as early as the 1950s. You can even extend that number past the 1980s due to stockpiled materials and because some countries treat asbestos use differently. It may also be found more in commercial applications than residential.

According to the National Cancer Institute, asbestos-related diseases can take anywhere from 10 to 40 years for symptoms to appear. The health risks increase with prolonged and heavier exposure. Risk factors also include:

• Amount of exposure

• Chemical makeup, size, and shape of the asbestos fibers

• Length of time a person is exposed to asbestos

• Genetic factors 

• Source of exposure (direct exposure or secondhand exposure from someone directly exposed)

Although the use of asbestos has declined since the 1980s, it remains in several different types of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire retardant. Typically, asbestos can be found in materials such as ceiling and floor tiles, heat-resistant fabrics and coatings, and roof shingles. You may also find asbestos in textured paint and patching compounds.

Epoxying over asbestos tiles is generally considered a safe option when done correctly. Epoxy acts as a sealant, encapsulating the asbestos tiles and preventing the release of asbestos fibers into the air. The key is ensuring that the asbestos tiles are in good condition, firmly adhered to the substrate, and not damaged or deteriorating. This method is only appropriate for tiles that are undamaged and securely in place. If the asbestos tiles are already loose, damaged, or deteriorating, encapsulating them with epoxy may not be a sufficient solution, as it might not address the potential for ongoing asbestos exposure.