Most homeowners don’t expect their walls to hide a potential health risk, but for those with older homes, asbestos in drywall can be a real concern. Once celebrated for its fire resistance and durability, asbestos was a common part of construction before its dangers became clear.
Knowing the risks and signs of asbestos in drywall is an important step toward creating a safer home. This guide will walk you through what to watch for and what to do next, helping you make informed, confident decisions about protecting your living space.
What is Asbestos, and Why Was it Used?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction due to its strength, heat resistance, and insulating properties.
Drywall manufacturers frequently incorporated asbestos to enhance fireproofing and durability, making it a standard feature in homes built or renovated before the 1980s.
At the time, asbestos was considered a groundbreaking material that provided extra safety and reliability.
However, as more research revealed the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure, regulations were introduced to limit its use. Today, homes constructed during the mid-20th century are more likely to contain drywall with asbestos.
Health Risks of Asbestos in Drywall
Asbestos becomes dangerous when disturbed. Damaging, cutting, or even handling drywall that contains asbestos can release microscopic fibers into the air.
These fibers are easily inhaled and can embed themselves in the lungs, causing serious health problems over time. The risks of asbestos exposure include:
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma, a cancer affecting the lining of the lungs and abdomen
- Asbestosis, a chronic respiratory disease caused by scarring in the lungs
Even brief exposure can pose health risks, particularly for children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory conditions. Renovations, repairs, or accidental damage to older drywall significantly increase the likelihood of exposure, making caution essential.
Indicators of Asbestos in Drywall
Determining whether your drywall contains asbestos isn’t straightforward since asbestos fibers aren’t visible to the naked eye.
However, certain factors can suggest the presence of asbestos and warrant further investigation:
- Your home was built or last renovated between the 1940s and late 1980s, a time when asbestos use was common in construction.
- The drywall shows signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, crumbling edges, or flaking material.
- You lack documentation or knowledge confirming asbestos-free materials were used during construction or renovation.
- Materials in the home appear older, with no updates made since the mid-20th century.
It’s important to remember that these signs are not definitive proof of asbestos. Also, attempting to inspect or disturb drywall yourself can release harmful fibers into the air and increase your risk of exposure.
Close-up view of asbestos fibers
When to Call a Professional
If you suspect asbestos in your drywall, contacting a professional is the safest step you can take. Professional assistance is essential if:
- Your home was built or renovated before the 1980s
- Your drywall shows signs of damage, such as cracks or crumbling
- You are planning renovations, repairs, or demolition work
Avoid any DIY attempts to remove or test drywall, as this can release harmful fibers and worsen the exposure risk. A licensed professional has the tools, knowledge, and experience to safely test and manage asbestos-containing materials.
How Professionals Test for Asbestos
Licensed professionals use safe and reliable methods to test drywall for asbestos.
The process begins with collecting small samples of the material, which are sent to certified laboratories for analysis. Laboratory testing can confirm the presence and concentration of asbestos.
In some cases, air quality testing may also be conducted to check for asbestos fibers circulating in the home. These steps ensure accurate results while minimizing risks during the testing process.
Attempting to test drywall yourself is strongly discouraged, as it can disturb materials and release harmful fibers into the air.
Other Maintenance for Homes with Older Materials
If your home was built before the 1980s, asbestos could be present in areas beyond drywall. Other materials commonly made with asbestos include:
- Ceiling tiles or popcorn ceilings
- Insulation, particularly in attics and around pipes
- Vinyl flooring or adhesive used for tile installation
To reduce potential risks in your home, consider taking these maintenance steps:
- Schedule routine inspections: Professional home inspections can identify materials that may contain asbestos or other aging construction risks.
- Monitor wear and tear: Keep an eye on any visible damage to older materials, such as cracks, peeling, or signs of aging, and address them promptly with professional help.
- Improve air quality: Use HEPA air filters in your home to capture airborne particles and reduce overall exposure.
- Seal and encapsulate materials: In cases where asbestos is confirmed but removal isn’t immediately necessary, sealing materials can help contain fibers and prevent them from becoming airborne.
Conclusion
Asbestos in drywall is a hidden risk that many homeowners may not realize, especially in older homes. Whether you’re planning renovations or simply want peace of mind, addressing potential asbestos issues with professional help is the safest course of action.
For homeowners in the Charlotte area, AHI provides expert asbestos testing and home inspections, with a team dedicated to ensuring your home is safe, healthy, and free from hidden dangers.
