What Does Asbestos Look Like?

July 5, 2021

Asbestos is a mineral that was, at one time, used often in different building materials. It consists of small fibers which can become airborne and breathed in, leading to significant health problems. Asbestos exposure has been known to cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other diseases.

Asbestos is difficult to tell apart from other materials since it may appear similar. However, there are certain methods to determine whether or not a material contains asbestos. If you're concerned about a substance possibly containing asbestos, get it checked out by a professional. If it does contain asbestos, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting exposed to it.

What Does Asbestos Look Like?

Asbestos can be hard to identify, but these tips will help you know if a material may contain asbestos.

Asbestos usually appears as insulation or a fire-resistant material, but it can also be in flooring, ceilings and siding. The fibers are microscopic and can enter your lungs when breathed in. There are many different types of asbestos, and occupations that work with asbestos, but here are some ways to tell if a material may contain asbestos:

-If the product is labeled “contains asbestos”

-Look for materials that are damaged or deteriorating; cracked or peeling insulation, for example, can release asbestos fibers into the air.

Asbestos typically appears in colors like white, blue, and brown. It often takes on a thin sheet form, but it can also be found as powder. Asbestos can be found in multiple places within a home including the kitchen, bathroom, attic, basement, and more.

White Asbestos

White asbestos is the most frequently found type of asbestos. It functions as insulation and a fire-resistant material.

Blue Asbestos

Blue asbestos is less prevalent than white asbestos, but it may still be found in some products. It's commonly used as insulation and flooring.

Brown Asbestos

Brown asbestos is the least common type of asbestos. It is often used in siding and ceilings.

Non-Friable Asbestos

Non-friable asbestos is a form of asbestos that doesn't easily let particles into the air. This sort of asbestos is commonly utilized in insulation and fire-resistant materials.

Friable asbestos is a type of asbestos that easily breaks down and releases fibers into the air. This type of asbestos often looks like powder.

Can you identify asbestos by smell?

Asbestos does not have a smell, so it is not possible to identify it by smell alone.

Testing For Asbestos

The only way to confirm if a material contains asbestos is through professional testing. While asbestos testing kits are accessible, it's crucial to understand that these kits aren't always accurate.

Should you suspect that a material may contain asbestos, the smartest next step would be to reach out to a professional for both testing and removal services.

the Dangers Of Asbestos

Asbestos exposure has been linked to several serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Diseases can take years to develop, and are especially dangerous for children, so it is important to be aware of the risks if you have been exposed to asbestos.

If you think you may have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to see a doctor and get tested. Early detection is key to treatment and survival. If you suspect your property may contain asbestos, contact a professional company to test and remove any asbestos found.