What you should know about asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fibre, used for its physical properties such as resistance to high temperatures, chemical resistance to various elements (such as rust and moisture) and high tensile strength.

Where is it likely to be located?

Asbestos was used extensively in the wet areas of housing such as laundry’s, kitchens, bathrooms, shower recesses, toilets, under eaves, roofs and typically in areas where deterioration through rust from a salt air environment would more readily occur. Asbestos was also commonly used in ceilings, walls, down pipes, floor coverings such as vinyl sheeting and tiles, flues, insulation materials, sealants and heat banks.

Asbestos was used in out-buildings of city and suburban residences, and many fences were also built from asbestos sheeting.

House cladding contains Asbestos and was sold extensively, especially during the 1950’s and 1960’s.

Asbestos was used in the construction of many rural sheds for housing farm animals, poultry, equipment etc.

The use of asbestos ceased around 1983 following many cases with serious health problems being identified as the result for exposure to asbestos in various ways. Houses built up to this time may contain asbestos in the areas mentioned earlier.

Friable asbestos (blue) was used in heat insulation situations and fireplace seals. It is the most dangerous of the three types of asbestos. Do not disturb it in any way. If you have this type of asbestos, seek experienced professional guidance from an appropriately licensed handler/removalist.