Asbestos was widely used in older construction materials, especially before the 1980s, due to its fire resistance, durability, and its ability to strengthen various materials. Here are some examples of materials where asbestos may be found:
- Plaster and plaster joints: Commonly used in older buildings, these materials could contain asbestos to enhance their strength and durability.
- Cement: Asbestos was often mixed into cement to make it stronger and fire-resistant.
- Stucco: Asbestos is frequently found in stucco, whether in ceilings (commonly known as popcorn ceiling or textured ceilings/walls) or stucco walls.
- Tiles: Asbestos was historically used in old vinyl floor tiles and even in ceiling tiles to increase their durability and resistance to wear.
- Heating systems: It was very common to cover furnaces or other fire-prone heating systems with asbestos. Asbestos sheets and panels were also sometimes installed above furnaces for added fire protection.
- Insulation: Asbestos can be found in some insulation materials, particularly vermiculite. Vermiculite with asbestos was quite popular in the past, especially when sourced from contaminated mines or from companies like Zonolite.
If you discover the presence of asbestos in friable materials or materials you wish to remove, it is important to contact a specialized asbestos removal company by calling 438-800-2046 to ensure the work is carried out safely.