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)
If asbestos is found, it is crucial to consult with a professional. They will provide recommendations for appropriate abatement actions, which may include safe removal, containment, sealing, or enclosure. All actions must be planned and executed in accordance with local regulations for handling asbestos.
Asbestos fibers can stay airborne for 48 to 72 hours, depending on the home's ventilation. Fibers can linger longer in enclosed spaces with poor airflow. Because the fibers are microscopic, they can easily remain suspended, making them difficult to detect without professional equipment.
Asbestos has many beneficial properties, including fire resistance, strength, and chemical resistance. It is also an excellent insulator, which is why it was used in pipe insulation and other building materials for decades. For all its benefits, asbestos is dangerous for human health, which is why it was eventually banned from use in certain products.
Whether or not to buy a home containing asbestos is ultimately a decision for the homebuyer, and there are several things to consider. When in good condition and contained, asbestos is unlikely to present a health risk—it’s when those tiny fibers are loose and airborne that they become a problem. Consider any renovations you plan on doing to the home that could disturb existing asbestos and the cost of removal. If an inspection finds asbestos in a home on the market, you could negotiate with the seller for a lower price, though this isn’t a sure thing.
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