Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction, insulation, and manufacturing industries from the 1950s to the 1980s. It was prized for its strength, durability, heat resistance, and soundproofing qualities. Asbestos was used in a variety of products, including:

• Roofing materials, such as tiles, shingles, or felt
• Insulation, such as pipe insulation, duct insulation, or vermiculite
• Flooring materials, such as vinyl tiles, linoleum, or mastic
• Textiles, such as fire blankets, curtains, or gloves
• Cement products, such as pipes, sheets, or panels
• Automotive parts, such as brakes, clutches, or gaskets
• Electrical components, such as wiring, switches, or capacitors

However, asbestos fibers are extremely hazardous when they become airborne and are inhaled or ingested by humans or animals. The fibers can lodge in the lungs, the throat, the stomach, or the intestines and cause a variety of serious health conditions, such as:

• Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, the abdomen, or the heart
• Lung cancer, a malignant tumor that starts in the lungs or spreads from other parts of the body
• Asbestosis, a chronic and progressive lung disease that scars the lung tissue and reduces its function
• Pleural plaques, thickened areas of the pleura (the lining of the lung) that can cause breathing difficulties and pain

Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of occupational cancer in the world, and it can take decades for the symptoms to appear. Therefore, it is important to identify, assess, and remove all asbestos-containing materials from your property as soon as possible to reduce the risk of exposure to yourself and others.