How long does it take for asbestos to harm you?

• <div>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:<ul><li>Amount of exposure</li><li>Chemical makeup, size, and shape of the asbestos fibers</li><li>Length of time a person is exposed to asbestos</li><li>Genetic factors </li><li>Source of exposure (direct exposure or secondhand exposure from someone directly exposed)</li></ul></div>

What are the signs of asbestos?

• <div>Unlike some home problems, such as water damage or pest infestations, asbestos can be very difficult to spot. Asbestos is a mineral in the form of microscopic fibers and was previously used in building materials for its bonding and fireproofing abilities. Insulation, roof shingles, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, pipe wrappings, soundproofing materials, and textured paint features like popcorn ceilings are common sources of asbestos, particularly in homes built before 1980.Age is perhaps the biggest indicator of asbestos, as legislation passed in the 1970s labeled asbestos as dangerous and regulated its use in building materials. Signs of age in the form of wear and tear or material degradation are also indicators that asbestos fibers may be leaking into the air, but ultimately, it’s difficult to detect with the naked eye. If you have reason to suspect asbestos in your home, it’s best to hire a certified asbestos inspector.</div>

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Last update on February 27, 2026

Reviewed in February 2026
Can't say enough about this awsome company! Their professionalism, efficiency, and knowledge was beyond measure. I would highly recommend this company. My flooded basement was put to the test and my expectations were, certainly, met. The Best! Thanks Chris and Scott!
Liptak Emergency Water Removal
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Reviewed in February 2021
No radon to treat. Test was free. Tech was very good and explained readings. Will retest in spring just to be sure.
AllStar Duct Solutions, Inc.
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Reviewed in November 2020
Chris was already at the house when I arrived at the appointed time. He explained the process and as we proceeded with the inspection he patiently and thoroughly described any issues he encountered. We were joined by John, the owner of the company, who performed some specific inspections and...
JMR Inspections
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Reviewed in May 2018
I have contracted this company for two home inspections, wood destroying insect inspections, and a radon test. Problems from our first home inspection prevented us from purchasinga home which had serious electrical concerns (knob and tube wiring hidden in insulation). I would absolutely...
Prime Home Services, Inc.
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Reviewed in February 2018
Test the sprinkler system after he finish they were very nice and quick.
Delta Lawn & Garden
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Reviewed in February 2014
I would have liked an efficiency test done as part of checkup
Pioneer Heating & Cooling
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Reviewed in February 2014
Karen answered the phone personally and then sent a rep out to do the test. That person was right on time and a pleasure to work with. I will be telling my neighbors about this.
AHEARN Radon Testing
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Reviewed in June 2009
They came out and tried to locate a water leak in my home. They were not able to locate it. They came out and ran a whole bunch of tests and tried a host of methods to find the leak. They believe that when they tried to flush pressure through the pipes that some sediment moved and blocked the...
Baker Brothers Plumbing, Air & Electric
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Percolation Tests questions, answered by experts

In the 1980s, the use of asbestos in house siding materials underwent a significant decline, ultimately being phased out by the mid-1980s to early 1990s. This change was largely due to a growing awareness of the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure, particularly its link to lung diseases and cancers. With increased public concern and regulatory agency involvement, building codes and regulations were updated to restrict the use of asbestos in construction materials.

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)

Unfortunately, asbestos is not easily identified and can often be hidden in plain sight in your home. While it can look like fluffy fibers, tiny pieces can also appear in materials like plastic or cement, making it impossible to identify on your own properly.

Plus, since asbestos is so dangerous when disturbed, you should never root around to try and find it. This job is best for a professional who can test for the material properly.

It is strongly advised not to touch or disturb asbestos-containing materials unless necessary. Asbestos fibers can be released into the air when the material is damaged or disturbed, posing serious health risks if inhaled. It is best to leave any handling of asbestos to trained professionals who can remove the asbestos safely.

Unlike some home problems, such as water damage or pest infestations, asbestos can be very difficult to spot. Asbestos is a mineral in the form of microscopic fibers and was previously used in building materials for its bonding and fireproofing abilities. Insulation, roof shingles, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, pipe wrappings, soundproofing materials, and textured paint features like popcorn ceilings are common sources of asbestos, particularly in homes built before 1980.

Age is perhaps the biggest indicator of asbestos, as legislation passed in the 1970s labeled asbestos as dangerous and regulated its use in building materials. Signs of age in the form of wear and tear or material degradation are also indicators that asbestos fibers may be leaking into the air, but ultimately, it’s difficult to detect with the naked eye. If you have reason to suspect asbestos in your home, it’s best to hire a certified asbestos inspector.

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