Angie's LIST Guide to
Asbestos

While most products manufactured today are free of asbestos, many insulation materials and construction products used before the late 1970s contained asbestos. In homes built before 1980, asbestos was often used in attics, basements and roofs. Fluffy gray or white asbestos functioned as heat and acoustical insulation in and around sewer and water pipes, ducts, electrical wiring, stovepipe rings, linoleum and vinyl flooring, shingles and acoustic tiles. It was placed in areas occupied by artificial fireplaces, furnaces, boilers and incinerators.

Asbestos was also mixed into materials, meaning it cannot be seen by someone looking for it. Asbestos was mixed into siding, cement, plaster, stucco, caulking, joint compounds and textured paints.

Even newer homes may contain asbestos. Some materials with trace amounts of asbestos are still sold and used. The asbestos fibers in these products generally remain tightly bound in the materials. These products include floor tile, mastic adhesive and roofing tar.

Products usually bear labels indicating asbestos content when asbestos exceeds 1 percent of the material. Homeowners should realize that lack of asbestos labeling does not mean asbestos is not present. Only lab analysis or manufacturer certification guarantees that material is asbestos-free.

Homeowners should note that older appliances opened up for repair may release asbestos fibers. Even recently made barbecue mitts, protective aprons and gloves may contain asbestos. These items should be discarded when damaged.

Because materials containing friable asbestos can be found in so many homes and buildings erected in the mid-20^th Century, an industry of asbestos mitigation professionals has emerged.  These experts are trained to inspect homes for asbestos, take samples and judge the condition of asbestos-containing materials.  They provide homeowners with advice regarding correction and recommend qualified correction contractors. Some companies offer testing as well as assessment and correction. The Environmental Protection Agency advises homeowners to avoid hiring a tester and correction contractor from the same company to avoid conflict of interest.

The federal government, as well as some local and state governments, provides training courses for asbestos professionals. When hiring, homeowners should ask for proof of EPA-approved training or state training. Local and state health departments may be able to provide listings of licensed professionals.

Homeowners should ask for references and get several estimates before hiring an asbestos mitigation company.  Search the Angie’s List category “asbestos removal” to find companies in your city who have received top ratings from past customers.

When an asbestos professional is inspecting your home, make sure he or she collects samples for lab analysis. If asbestos is found, a written description of location, extent of the problem and recommended treatment should be provided.