Asbestos is a dangerous substance that was commonly used in building materials in the past due to its heat resistance and durability. It was quite common in New Zealand homes.
However, it’s now known to pose serious health risks when its fibers are airborne and inhaled.
If you suspect your house may contain asbestos, it’s essential to be cautious and consider hiring a professional asbestos inspector or abatement professional for a thorough assessment.
Here are some signs and places to look for potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs):
It’s important to note that asbestos-containing materials may not always be visible or obvious. If you suspect the presence of asbestos, it’s safest to consult a professional asbestos abatement specialist to conduct testing and provide guidance on appropriate actions to take.
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Disturbing or attempting to remove asbestos without proper precautions can release harmful fibers into the air, posing a significant health risk.
- Age of the House: If your house was built before the 1980s, it’s more likely to have asbestos-containing materials, as asbestos was widely used in construction up until this time. Newer builds eg steel buildings are generally fine.
- Insulation: Asbestos was commonly used in various types of insulation, such as loose-fill, blown-in, or sprayed-on insulation in attics, walls, and ceilings.
- Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles, linoleum, and the adhesive used to install them might contain asbestos. Older homes often have asbestos-containing vinyl tiles.
- Ceiling Tiles: Asbestos may be present in acoustic ceiling tiles or “popcorn” ceilings. Check for damaged or deteriorating tiles.
- Pipe Insulation and Ductwork: Asbestos may have been used to insulate pipes, boilers, and furnace ducts. Check for areas where pipes are exposed.
- Roofing and Siding: Asbestos may be found in roofing shingles, siding, or shingle underlayment. This is more common in older homes.
- Textured Paints and Plasters: Some older textured paints and plasters may contain asbestos. Avoid sanding or disturbing these surfaces.
- Cement Sheets: Asbestos-containing cement sheets were used in siding, roofing, and other applications.
- Heating Appliances and Flues: Check heating appliances, ventilation systems, stoves, and flues for asbestos insulation or gaskets.
- Gaskets and Seals: Asbestos-containing gaskets and seals were used in appliances, such as furnaces and wood-burning stoves in kitchens.
- Older Electrical Wiring Insulation: Asbestos may have been used in older electrical wiring insulation.
- Fireproofing Materials: Asbestos was used in some fire-resistant materials like spray-applied fireproofing.