PuroClean of Evanston 
Buying and updating a vintage property can be exciting and rewarding, but it’s crucial to be aware of potential hazards lurking within the walls, floors, and ceilings of some Chicagoland homes.
One of the most significant concerns for homeowners and contractors alike is asbestos, a once-popular building material now known for its severe health risks.
Let the experienced team at PuroClean of Evanston help you navigate the process of identifying and safely handling asbestos while repairing or updating your property so you can ensure the safety of all involved.
Understanding Asbestos in Chicago’s Building Stock
The term “asbestos” refers to six naturally occurring fibrous minerals: amosite, chrysotile, crocidolite, tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite. They produce thin, durable threads that are resistant to heat, fire, and chemicals, and do not conduct electricity.
Large-scale mining began in the late 19th century and was a commonly used building component, found in shingles, siding, insulation, floor tiles, plaster, and more. It was also prevalent in the shipbuilding industry, automotive factories, vermiculite-laden garden products, and much more.
Asbestos-containing material (ACM) can be friable or nonfriable (sometimes referred to as “bonded asbestos’). Friable asbestos can be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to a powder by hand pressure. Non-friable asbestos has a lower risk, as it is mixed with cement or other hard bonding materials, but both can cause cancer, mesothelioma, or other serious health conditions.
After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, real estate magnates rejoiced at rebuilding with a material shown to help prevent the horrific damage from out-of-control conflagrations. In 1918, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released a report highlighting the high risk of early death among workers with sustained exposure to the mineral. In 1930, Dr. E.R.A. Merewether discovered asbestosis, a deadly lung disease caused by inhaling the harmful fibers.
However, the growing discoveries of the dangers of asbestos were ignored and it was used regularly in many applications until the 1970s. Starting in 1977, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began banning most asbestos-containing products in the US.
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials in Vintage Homes
If your home was built before the 1980s, it’s likely that some building materials contain asbestos. Here are some common places to look:
- Insulation: Asbestos was widely used in attic and wall insulation, especially in loose-fill insulation that might appear like fluffy, grayish material.
- Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles, sheet flooring, and adhesives may contain asbestos. The materials often appear stained or oily, with thick black adhesive, commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Roofing and siding materials: Asphalt shingles, siding, and roofing felt may contain asbestos, offering resistance to heat and fire.
- Cement sheets and pipes: Known as transite, cement sheets and pipes often used in basements or as HVAC ducts can be a source of asbestos.
- Popcorn ceilings: This decorative ceiling texture, popular in the 1970s and 1980s, often contained asbestos. If your home has popcorn ceilings, proceed with caution during renovations.
- Drywall and joint compounds: Wall materials and the compounds used to join them could contain asbestos, especially in homes built or remodeled prior to the 1980s.
Asbestos is difficult to identify by sight alone, as it is often embedded in other materials. Clues like the age of the house, the presence of popcorn ceilings, or certain flooring materials can indicate the potential presence of asbestos.
Keep in mind that the EPA states that “asbestos-containing materials that aren’t damaged or disturbed are not likely to pose a health risk,” and to leave it alone if it’s in good condition and won’t be disturbed by remodeling. If you are going to make changes in your home that might disturb it, removal by a trained and accredited asbestos professional is needed.
Moving Forward
If you’re considering purchasing a vintage building or an older home and renovating the property to modern standards, it’s best to get a comprehensive inspection before signing a contract so you know exactly what you’re buying.
For home and business owners who have experienced a fire, flood, or other incident that resulted in damage to asbestos-containing materials, it’s essential to leave potentially contaminated materials undisturbed and call in the experts.
These highly trained professionals have the proper tools, equipment, and know-how to deal with this relatively common yet dangerous problem. While PuroClean of Evanston doesn’t handle asbestos removal, Chicagoland homeowners can rest assured that our team will work with insurance adjustors and properly qualified contractors to get your home or business up to code and asbestos-free as soon as possible.
Let our compassionate team help you get back to normal as quickly as possible after a property-damaging event — reach out to us today!
PuroClean of Evanston 