Asbestos in 1970s Houses: What You Need to Know

The 1970s were a crucial decade in the use of asbestos in construction. Houses built during this eraoften contained asbestos in various materials. This article provides an overview of the presence and management of asbestos in 1970s houses, including potential dangers, identification methods, and advice on handling the material.

Asbestos: A Common Material in 1970s Houses

From the 1930s to the 1980s, asbestos was widely used in construction materials due to its fire-resistant and durable properties. However, by the late 1970s, concerns about its health risks began to rise, leading to regulations and eventually its ban in many countries. In the United Kingdom, asbestos was officially banned in the 1990s, but homes built before this time often still contain asbestos.

The U.S., on the other hand, had a different timeline. The use of asbestos in construction peaked in the 1970s. Anything not made of wood, glass, or metal should have been suspected of containing asbestos. For example, sheeting materials, insulation, and even some roofing and siding materials were likely to contain asbestos during this period.

Identifying Asbestos in Your Home

Identifying asbestos can be challenging, especially for those without professional experience. The following methods can help you determine if your 1970s house contains asbestos:

Ring Test: Efrayim suggests using a door key to tap the sheeting material. It will have a clear ringing sound when compared to other materials. This test is a simple way to identify asbestos at home.

Visual Inspection: Look for materials that appear suspicious, such as insulation, flooring, and ceiling tiles. Gutters, downpipes, and soffit boards in older homes were often made of asbestos.

Professional Inspection: For accurate identification, hire a professional certified asbestos building inspector to take samples and analyze them. This process is the most reliable method to determine the presence of asbestos.

Managing Asbestos in Your Home

Absentance of asbestos does not mean it is safe to handle. If you suspect the presence of asbestos, it is vital to take precautions and seek professional assistance. Here are some key points to consider:

Do Not Disturb: Avoid cutting, drilling, or breaking any suspected asbestos-containing materials. Such actions can release harmful fibers into the air, posing a serious health risk.

Encapsulation: If the asbestos is in good condition and not disturbed, encapsulation can be a cheaper solution. This process involves painting the material to seal it off from the environment.

Safe Removal: For damaged materials or those that need to be disturbed, hiring a qualified specialist contractor for safe removal is essential. Removing asbestos safely requires specialized knowledge and equipment to prevent the release of harmful fibers.

Real-Life Experience: Dealing with Asbestos

The experience of dealing with asbestos in a 1970s house can be challenging, as demonstrated by the case of a rental property mentioned earlier. A leak was discovered, and testing confirmed the presence of asbestos. As a result, the tenants had to be relocated to a hotel for months, and contractors stripped out all the drywall, leading to significant costs for the insurance company—approximately $25,000.

Fortunately, the landlord’s policy covered the loss of income, alleviating some of the financial burden. This experience highlights the importance of being prepared and aware of asbestos in older housing.

For those who have asbestos in their homes and wish to keep it in place, painting is a viable solution. However, if the material needs to be removed, it is imperative to hire professionals who understand the risks and have the proper equipment and training to handle the task safely.

Understanding the presence and management of asbestos in your 1970s house can help you take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your property. By following best practices and seeking professional assistance, you can effectively deal with asbestos and maintain a safe living environment.