Asbestos was once a popular material in construction due to its durability, heat resistance, and insulating properties. However, we now know that asbestos poses serious health risks, leading to its ban in many countries, including New Zealand. Despite the ban, asbestos remains in many older buildings, posing a hidden danger to occupants. This article will help you understand where asbestos might be found in building materials and why it's crucial to address it.
1. Insulation Materials Asbestos was widely used in insulation for its fire-resistant properties. You can find it in:
2. Roofing Materials Asbestos-containing roofing materials were popular for their durability and resistance to weather conditions. These include:
3. Wall and Ceiling Materials Many older buildings have asbestos in their walls and ceilings, typically in:
4. Flooring Materials Asbestos was commonly used in various flooring products, such as:
5. Pipes and Ducts Asbestos was used to insulate pipes and ducts, particularly:
6. Fireproofing Materials Asbestos's fire-resistant qualities made it a popular choice for:
Asbestos is not always visible to the naked eye and can be mixed with other materials. If your property was built before the 1990s, it’s advisable to assume asbestos might be present. Professional asbestos surveys are essential to identify and manage the risk.
