What are the signs of asbestos?

• <div><p>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.</p><p>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.</p></div>

How long does it take for asbestos to harm you?

• <div><p>According to the National Cancer Institute, asbestos-related diseases can take anywhere from <b>10 to 40 years</b> for symptoms to appear. The health risks increase with prolonged and heavier exposure. Risk factors also include:</p><ul><li><p>Amount of exposure</p></li><li><p>Chemical makeup, size, and shape of the asbestos fibers</p></li><li><p>Length of time a person is exposed to asbestos</p></li><li><p>Genetic factors </p></li><li><p>Source of exposure (direct exposure or secondhand exposure from someone directly exposed)</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Is asbestos commonly found in older homes?

• <div><p>Asbestos is commonly found in certain older homes, depending on the time period in which they were built. Asbestos use in home construction began in the 1920s and peaked after World War II before being limited by legislation in the ’70s, so a house constructed in 1880 is unlikely to contain asbestos, while one built in 1950 is much more likely to. Research a home’s history to determine the time period when it was built and any renovations made since. </p></div>

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Last update on June 07, 2024

Reviewed in June 2024
I’m really happy with my new bathroom. The tile work was outstanding and the job was finished in about 1 week. Thanks Bellevue Builders Co.
Bellevue Builders Co
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Reviewed in April 2023
I rarely give 5 stars. For me, 5 stars are for only life-changing reasons! BUT, the quick response and service, I thought reasonable rates, qualified this time! I live in a 3 story house, with multiple peaks and valleys. Although a small job, I received excellent service! The real test, I...
Allied Home Improvements
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Reviewed in October 2021
GREAT RESULTS! GIVES ATTENTION TO DETAILS! VERY CONSCIENTIOUS! GOOD VALUE FOR WORK DONE! WILL HIRE AGAIN!
Crow Painting
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Reviewed in September 2021
Very thorough I for detail very professional
C and C Property Maintenance
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Reviewed in June 2021
Wide Horizons appears to be just one persons business. He responded to the request for inspection, service, and repair of my central air system and seemed impressive at first saying he could come out later that day. After being an hour late we had to call to find out it was going to be another...
Wide Horizons HVAC/R
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Reviewed in March 2021
Great install and customer support with water test to prove safe water for family.
Maine's Best Water Treatment
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Reviewed in September 2012
When I first talked to Ron on the phone he admitted that realtors seldom recommend him because he always "says it like it is" and finds any problems that might be present in the home. That was enough to sell me on his services. <br /> On the day of the inspection, Ron was there early. He had...
ELM CITY HOME INSPECTION
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Percolation Tests questions, answered by experts

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.

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.

The microscopic asbestos fibers do not cause eye irritation, throat irritation, or lung irritation. If you are inhaling fibers, you will not know it. This lack of immediate symptoms is one of the reasons why asbestos is so dangerous. You cannot know for certain if you are inhaling fibers, which is why you must wear safety gear if you could have any chance of an exposure while working.

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)

Asbestos is commonly found in certain older homes, depending on the time period in which they were built. Asbestos use in home construction began in the 1920s and peaked after World War II before being limited by legislation in the ’70s, so a house constructed in 1880 is unlikely to contain asbestos, while one built in 1950 is much more likely to. Research a home’s history to determine the time period when it was built and any renovations made since.

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