It’s quite simple to spot building materials that are not asbestos ridden, like natural stone and brick. However, there are several types of asbestos siding that may be a bit harder to identify.
- Determine the age of your home by looking at the property deed or any other records about its construction.
- Inspect your siding: Look specifically for any printed information that identifies the siding manufacturer or date of installation.
- Count layers of paint because many layers indicate age and therefore a greater chance of asbestos.
- Examine areas around replaced windows and doors if they have newer siding next to them.
-Compare the newer siding to older siding areas and look for evidence that indicates age.
- Asbestos was particularly prevalent in siding that resembles shingles or was made to look like wood grain.
- If your siding has these characteristics, then asbestos could be present.
- You may choose to take a sample of siding from a damaged area of siding.
- Put on a mask and scrape away some siding material into a baggie.
- Contact an accredited testing lab in your area to analyze your sample
With each type of siding, there is potential for the presence of asbestos.The strong fibers were combined with substances such as cement and molded together to make asbestos siding. Like other forms of asbestos used, the siding was done away with during the late 1970s, early 1980s. Because the material is so toxic, the only way to determine that you have asbestos siding is to have it tested. Some of the characteristics that are unique to asbestos siding include shingle/shake form 12″x24″, with a few nails contained at the bottom portion of each panel.
There are many types of sidings and they each have their own risks for asbestos exposure. In any event, asbestos siding is harmless unless disturbed. If you are unsure if your home contains the substance, choose the safe route and call an asbestos removal professional for an assessment.