Older houses hold a special spot in many hearts. Such a charming character with unique features often makes them lovable and desirable. But these homes may also harbor hidden dangers. Indubitably one of the biggest risks to worry about is asbestos – the material used in some construction until the 20th century. If you’re wondering, “Did a house built in 1986 have asbestos? the answer is not as straightforward as it may appear.
What Is Asbestos?
Definition
Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring fibrous silicate minerals With properties like heat resistance, fireproofing, and insulating, it was well-suited for use in construction and industrial applications. For decades, it was used in hundreds of products, including building materials and home goods.
Historical Use
Asbestos became popularized in the 1930s and was used widely until the 1980s. It was widely used in building materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles and flooring. Builders adored asbestos for its low cost and versatility, and it essentially found its way into homes, schools and office buildings everywhere.
Why Was It So Popular?
Asbestos was attractive because of its durability, fire resistance and low cost. Since it addresses key problems for safety and energy efficiency, such as fire proofing, it was a great solution. The health risks involved with asbestos exposure weren’t discovered until much later, which is why it was eventually banned due to its harmful effects.
Houses Built in 1986 with Asbestos
Regulations Timeline
By the 1970s and 1980s, health studies started to establish a connection between exposure to the carcinogenic substance and serious diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. In turn, many countries, the U.S. included, enacted regulations restricting the use of asbestos. But a complete ban on products containing asbestos was never put in place. Rather, it was phased out slowly, so that residual materials remained in construction projects long after the material had faded from the market in the late 1980s.
Absence of Asbestos in 1986 Homes
A home built in 1986 may still have the potential for asbestos. This is because:
- Stockpiles of asbestos-containing materials that had already been produced continued to be used.
- Asbestos bans took a while to be enforced, and some builders continued using the materials in certain cases.
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Common Locations of Asbestos
In houses built in the 1980s, asbestos can be present in:
- Insulation (walls, attics, or pipes)
- Vinyl flooring tiles
- Textured ceilings (also known as “popcorn ceilings”)
- Cement sheets or pipes
Health Risks Related to Asbestos
Overview of Health Effects
Asbestos exposure can be devastating to one’s health. When asbestos materials are damaged, small fibers are released the air. These fibers may be inhaled and become trapped in the lungs, potentially resulting in serious conditions such as:
- Lung fibrosis (asbestosis): Scarring of lung tissue that causes breathing problems.
- Mesothelioma: A rare, aggressive cancer that forms in the protective lining of the lungs or abdomen.
- Lung cancer: Risk of lung cancer increases with prolonged exposure.
Exposure Risks
Asbestos poses the most threat when it is damaged or decays, which allows its fibers to become airborne. Additional factors that increase the risk include:
- Smokings, which increases the risk on diseases related to asbestos.
- Any legal renovation or DIY project that tears apart materials containing asbestos.
Symptoms of Exposure
But if you have been exposed to asbestos, symptoms could take decades to develop. Common signs include:
- Constant shortness of breath.
- A persistent cough that doesn’t get better.
- Chest pain or tightness. Seek a qualified medical professional if you experience any of these symptoms.
How to Recognize Asbestos in Your Home
Signs of Asbestos Presence
Detecting asbestos in your house can be difficult. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- Age of the home: Properties built between the 1940s and 1980s are the most likely to contain asbestos.
- Certain materials, such as insulation, popcorn ceilings, or floor tiles.
DIY Inspection Tips
If you think your home might contain asbestos, take these precautions:
- Use protective equipment, including gloves and the respirator.
- Materials that may contain asbestos should not be disturbed, as disturbance significantly raises the risk level for fiber release.
Professional Testing
To ensure they’re accurately identifying it, you’re better off hiring a licensed professional.” They can safely collect samples and test them in a lab to determine whether the material contains asbestos. This protects you and your compliance with local laws.
What Should You Do if Asbestos Is Present in Your Home
Leave It Alone If Undamaged
If the asbestos-containing materials in your home are in good condition and undisturbed, they are generally not harmful. Asbestos is dangerous only when its fibers are released into the air.
When Removal Is Necessary
When items made with asbestos are damaged, they might need to be removed. This is particularly crucial if you’re making renovations or if the materials are failing.
Hiring Professionals
Handling asbestos removal by yourself is dangerous and in many cases against the law. Asbestos abatement is a complex process which is undertaken by licensed professionals who use strict safety procedures to remove and properly dispose of asbestos. They also help your business maintain compliance with local laws, avoiding costly fines.
Things Homeowners Can Do to Prevent
You can minimize risk by being proactive about asbestos in your home. There are a few steps to consider here:
Regular Inspections
Have your home professionally (and annually) inspected, especially if it’s ante-1990s. These professionals can look for signs of damage or deterioration that are present in asbestos-containing materials.
Avoid DIY Removal
Never try to remove asbestos yourself. If this is the case for you, without proper training and equipment, you are risking exposing you and your family to harmful fibers.
Renovation Precautions
And if you are doing any renovations, let your contractors know there may be asbestos present. Ensure they understand safety protocols and check the materials before they start working.
Conclusion
There is no denying that older homes have their own special charm, but they also may require you to deal with some hidden dangers like asbestos. Learning about where asbestos may be present in your home, the health risks it could pose and what to do about asbestos is vital to keeping your home safe. If you suspect that your home contains asbestos, don’t risk it — have a professional test for and remove asbestos. Awareness and timely action can help you live safely in your older home while enjoying its beauty and charm.
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