Asbestos

Asbestos Definition

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that is typically used in building materials and known for its hazardous properties when damaged or made airborne.

Explanation

Asbestos is most commonly and famously found in:

• popcorn ceilings
• floor tiles
• pipe insulation
• roof shingles
• wall insulation
• HVAC ductwork

It was a type of material used for homes that were built before 1980.

When airborne, asbestos can cause cancer and other serious diseases when inhaled. This property causes the mineral to be considered highly hazardous.

Asbestos disclosure requirements before the sale of the property vary by state. Many states require sellers to disclose known asbestos, but they are not required to test for it.

Asbestos is not always detectable visually, and disturbing it can release dangerous fibers. When testing for the presence of asbestos, samples must be collected safely by a licensed professional.

Modern homes are no longer built using any sort of asbestos, as it is highly dangerous.

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