The facts about asbestos
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Here are some quick facts about asbestos.
What is it?
Asbestos is a natural, fibrous mineral. Valued for its durability, fire resistance and excellent insulating properties, it was used in the Australian building industry between the 1940s and late 1980s. This was before the dangerous qualities became apparent.
What should you look out for?
In general, domestic buildings contain non-friable asbestos fibres, which the authorities agree are not a health risk if they remain sealed and in good condition (such as painted, asbestos-cement sheet walls). If the fibres are disturbed during renovation precautions should be taken. While removing asbestos from your own property is not illegal, the safest option is to call in the experts.
Where is it usually found?
In domestic buildings, asbestos fibres are found either firmly or loosely bound in a number of products. Firmly bound, or "non-friable", asbestos can be found in:
- Flat or corrugated sheeting (commonly known as Fibro or AC sheeting)
- Water or flue pipes
- Roof Shingles
- Flexible building boards
- Imitation brick cladding
- Plaster patching compounds
- Textured Paint
- Vinyl floor tiles
- The backing of linoleum floor coverings
Loosely bound, or "friable", asbestos may be found in a few older forms of insulation used in domestic heaters and stoves. It is unlikely ceiling insulation used in domestic buildings will have asbestos as that was more commonly used in commercial buildings, but if you are unsure or concerned then consult a specialist.
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