New York City is known for its architectural history, which means that many residential buildings still hold a legacy of older construction practices. Thus, the homeowners and renovators can face a high risk of asbestos exposure. So, they need to have a clear understanding of where asbestos might be present to avoid serious health issues.
Let’s explore the most common asbestos-containing materials in NYC homes and what you need to know to stay safe.
What Is Asbestos and Why Should You Be Concerned?
Asbestos is a natural fiber that was used in old construction buildings and products during the 20th century because it is known for insulation, durability, and fire resistance. When these materials are damaged, the tiny fibers become airborne.
If anyone inhales these fibers, they can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other respiratory illnesses. The disease may take 15 to 40 years to show its symptoms. That’s why you should be concerned about reducing the asbestos exposure risk in NYC through proper management and timely inspection.
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials in NYC Homes
Modern building materials do not contain asbestos, but many older homes still contain various ACMs. Below, we explore the most common materials in which asbestos may be present:
Insulation Materials
Older buildings in New York City often used asbestos-containing insulation around pipes, boilers, and furnaces to help with temperature regulation and for fireproofing benefits. Moreover, vermiculite insulation, which was once popular in attics and walls before the 1980s, contains asbestos fibers.So, homeowners should take precautions while renovating or cleaning their attics because if insulation breaks or crumbles, it may release hazardous asbestos fibers into the air that calls for professional asbestos abatement.
Floor Tiles and Adhesives
Many old vinyl tiles, cement tiles, and the backing materials used in sheet vinyl flooring contain asbestos. Even the adhesives used for installation contained asbestos fibers for durability and heat resistance. Over time, as these materials age and deteriorate, the risk of fiber release increases.
Roofing and Siding Materials
Asbestos was used in roofing materials such as corrugated or flat asbestos cement shingles and underlayment used for roofing shingles. These materials were known for their fireproof and weather-resistant properties.
These materials generally do not pose a health risk when disturbed, but damage from weathering or renovation can release fibers.
Textured Paints, Plasters, and Joint Compounds
Asbestos may also be present in old popcorn ceilings, plaster, and stucco. Even some wall textures, patching compounds, and joint fillers used in drywall installations may also contain asbestos fibers to enhance strength. During renovation, when these materials deteriorate, the risk of fiber release increases.
Adhesives and Sealants
The caulking materials used around windows, doors, and in other gaps were often made with asbestos. These products help seal air leaks but may become flaky over time and, if disturbed, can release asbestos fibers.
Moreover, in older flooring systems, adhesives that bond tiles to the subfloor might also be contaminated with asbestos.
How To Identify Asbestos in Your NYC Home to Stay Safe?
We cannot see asbestos fibers with a naked eye! So, the only way to confirm the presence of such fibers is through the following ways:
- Hire an asbestos inspection team in NYC so that they look for signs of aging or damage in insulation, floor tiles, roofing, and wall materials.
- If visual inspection is not enough, ask the team to collect samples from suspect materials for lab testing through polarized light microscopy (PLM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM) methods.
- If you choose to keep asbestos-containing materials intact, make sure to regularly monitor and inspect any deterioration.
- If you are planning any renovations, inform your contractor about the possibility of asbestos and ensure proper air filtration measures during the renovation to stay safe.
The homeowners in New York City need to stay informed, take preventive measures, and use professional services to ensure that your home remains a safe and healthy place for you and your loved ones.