Asbestos. It’s a word no homeowner wants to hear, yet it’s essential to be clued up on the subject – especially if your property was built before the year 2000.
Today, we know it poses serious health risks when disturbed. But back in the day, it was a popular building material used widely in homes and commercial properties thanks to its strength, insulation, and fire-resistant qualities. If you own an older property, you might be wondering: Do I have asbestos in my home? And while asbestos can’t always be identified just by looking, certain signs and situations may suggest its presence.
So, grab a cuppa and spare the next five minutes cluing yourself up on what to look for; you never know when this information might come in handy.
Common Places Asbestos May Be Found In Your Home
Asbestos was a versatile material, so it appeared in all sorts of building products. Some of the most common places include:
- Roofing and guttering: asbestos cement sheets, downpipes, and soffits.
- Insulation: around boilers, hot water tanks, and pipe lagging.
- Ceilings and walls: textured coatings like Artex, partition walls, or ceiling tiles.
- Flooring: old vinyl floor tiles and the adhesive used beneath them
- Garages and sheds: corrugated asbestos cement roof panels.
If your home has not been updated since the 1980s or 1990s, there is a good chance that the substance could still be present in one of these areas.
Warning Signs To Watch Out For
Unlike other household issues, asbestos doesn’t have a distinct look or smell. The main warning signs come from your home’s age and condition. You should be cautious if:
- Your home was built or renovated between the 1950s and the late 1990s.
- You notice older insulation boards, cement sheeting, or pipe lagging.
- There are textured coatings or ceiling tiles that appear original to the property.
- Garage roofing or guttering looks aged but hasn’t been replaced.
If any of these apply, it’s best to treat the material with caution.
So You Find Asbestos, What Do You Do Next?
The most important thing is not to disturb suspected asbestos yourself. Cutting, sanding, or breaking it can release harmful fibres into the air. Instead, contact a licensed professional, such as Cornwall Asbestos Removal, who can carry out a survey and confirm whether the substance is present. They can then also carry out professional asbestos disposal services.
Contact Cornwall Asbestos Removal Today
Asbestos in the home is more common than many people realise. But with the right knowledge and support, it can be managed safely. If you suspect that it is on your property, we urge you to seek professional advice. It’s the safest way to protect your health and your home. Simply contact our team today, and we’ll be happy to assist you.