If you live in an older home, especially one built before the 1990s, there’s a chance it could contain asbestos. Asbestos was widely used in Australian construction for its strength, fire resistance, and insulation properties. However, we now know that asbestos exposure can lead to serious health risks, including lung disease, asbestosis, and cancers like mesothelioma.
As a homeowner in areas like Riddells Creek, Ballarat, or Greater Bendigo, understanding the signs of asbestos in your home is crucial—especially if you’re considering renovations. In this post, we’ll go over five key signs that might indicate your home contains asbestos.
1. Your Home Was Built Before 1990
One of the most significant indicators that your home might have asbestos is its age. If your home was built before 1990, there’s a good chance asbestos was used in some part of its construction. Asbestos was commonly found in:
- Roof sheeting and insulation
- Wall cladding and cement sheeting
- Vinyl flooring and adhesives
- Textured paint and ceiling coatings
While asbestos use was phased out in the 1980s, many homes built before that period still contain asbestos in a variety of materials. Even if your home has been well-maintained, asbestos could be lurking in places you don’t often see, like under flooring or inside walls.
2. Old Roofing or Siding Materials
If your home has its original roofing or external siding, especially if it’s made of cement sheeting or corrugated roofing materials, asbestos could be present. Asbestos cement products were commonly used in the construction of Australian homes, particularly in exterior areas that required fire resistance or weatherproofing.
Over time, these materials can deteriorate due to weather exposure. When asbestos-containing materials break down, they become more likely to release asbestos fibres into the air, which can pose health risks. If you notice wear and tear on your roof or siding, it’s best to get it inspected by a professional.
3. “Popcorn” or Textured Ceilings
Another sign your home might contain asbestos is the presence of textured or “popcorn” ceilings. These ceiling coatings were popular in homes built in the 1960s and 1970s because they provided a textured, sound-absorbing finish. However, many of these coatings contained asbestos.
The danger with textured ceilings is that they can easily release asbestos fibres if disturbed by drilling, scraping, or even just wear and tear over time. If your home has this type of ceiling, and it hasn’t been tested for asbestos, it’s essential to get a professional evaluation before any renovation work.
4. Vinyl Flooring Tiles or Adhesives
If your home has old vinyl flooring tiles or linoleum installed before the 1980s, there’s a good chance they could contain asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in both the vinyl tiles themselves and the adhesive used to stick them down.
The real risk comes when these tiles are damaged or removed, as this can release asbestos fibres into the air. You should never attempt to rip up old vinyl flooring without first confirming whether or not it contains asbestos. If you suspect your flooring may have asbestos, it’s best to have it inspected by a licensed asbestos professional like Myers Asbestos Removal.
What to Do If You Suspect Asbestos in Your Home
If you’ve identified one or more of these signs in your home, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re in immediate danger. Asbestos is typically only harmful when disturbed, so it’s essential not to attempt any DIY removal. Instead, follow these steps to ensure your safety:
- Don’t disturb it: Avoid drilling, cutting, or removing any materials you suspect may contain asbestos.
- Get a professional inspection: Contact a licensed asbestos removal company like Myers Asbestos Removal to conduct a thorough inspection of your home.
- Plan for safe removal: If asbestos is found, work with a licensed removalist to safely remove and dispose of the materials following all regulations and safety protocols.
Why You Should Always Hire a Professional
The removal of asbestos is a delicate process that should only be handled by trained and licensed professionals. At Myers Asbestos Removal, we have extensive experience in safely identifying and removing asbestos from homes across Riddells Creek, Ballarat, Greater Bendigo, and surrounding areas. Our team follows all safety regulations, ensuring that your home is free from asbestos hazards.
Final Thoughts
Living in an older home comes with its own set of challenges, and asbestos is one of the most important risks to be aware of. By knowing the signs of asbestos and taking the right precautions, you can keep your family safe and ensure your home is properly protected.
If you’re concerned that your home might contain asbestos, or if you’re planning renovations and want to ensure you’re working safely, contact Myers Asbestos Removal. We offer professional inspections, testing, and removal services, giving you peace of mind and a safer living environment.
Reach out to Myers Asbestos Removal today to schedule an asbestos inspection and ensure your home is safe for you and your family.