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There are products that still contain asbestos, but they were typically installed decades ago. Common places where you may still find asbestos-containing materials are in siding, wrapped around ductwork, in older appliances (i.e., stove and gravity furnaces), and in floors. Asbestos was primarily used as an insulator, so anywhere in an older home where you lose heat is where you will most likely find asbestos.

Most manufacturers stopped putting asbestos in linoleum before 1980 due to public concerns about its toxicity. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) didn’t ban asbestos-containing products until 1989, and a comprehensive ban was not announced until 2024. This means that homes built after 1989 may still have asbestos in their flooring.

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 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.