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Insulation
Asbestos is resistant to heat, which made it a popular choice for insulation. Homes built between 1930 and 1950 may have been insulated with asbestos insulation. Homes using insulation made with vermiculite ore may also be contaminated with asbestos. From 1923 to 1990, a single mine in Libby, Montana, supplied much of the world's vermiculite. A natural deposit of asbestos in this mine contaminated much of the vermiculite with asbestos fibers. Avoid disturbing vermiculite insulation and have it removed by an expert as soon as possible.
Other potential sources of asbestos insulation include steam pipes, wood-burning stoves, boilers, furnaces and furnace ducts. Asbestos fibers may be released if any of these appliances are damaged, moved or repaired improperly. Sanding, tearing, cutting or sawing the insulation can potentially release asbestos fibers.
Resilent Floor Tiles
The backing on vinyl sheet flooring and the adhesives used to install floor tile may contain asbestos. The asbestos fibers can be released by either sanding the tiles or sanding the backing on sheet flooring when it is being removed from a building.
Sound Proofing or Decorative Material
Sound proofing and decorative material containing asbestos was often sprayed onto walls and ceilings in homes, offices and businesses. As they begin to deteriorate and crumble, the materials release asbestos fibers into the air where they can be inhaled.
Roofing
Asbestos adds strength and fire resistance to building materials such as shingles, roofing tiles and siding. These materials are not likely to shed asbestos fibers into the air unless they are cut, sawed or drilled, so exercise caution when working on construction projects where asbestos roofing or siding may have been used.
Patching and Joint Compounds and Textured Paint
The government banned patching and joint compounds and textured paint containing asbestos in 1977. However, they may still be found in older homes and buildings. Sanding, drilling and scraping surfaces covered in these paints and compounds may release asbestos fibers.
Ohter Sources
Other products possibly containing asbestos include artificial ashes and embers used in gas fireplaces, brake pads, gaskets, clutch facings, fireproof gloves, stop top pads, ironing board covers and some hairdryers. These products may release asbestos fibers as they wear out and break.