You may have heard the term tossed around or seen it in old home renovation shows, but what exactly is asbestos, and why should you care? Understanding asbestos can help you protect your loved ones from potential health risks lurking in your home. Here at Howard Environmental, we want to equip you with the knowledge you need to deal with asbestos confidently. So let’s break it down and learn how to keep your family safe!
What is Asbestos?

So, what’s this mysterious substance called asbestos? It’s actually a group of natural minerals made up of thin, needle-like fibers. These fibers are resistant to heat and corrosion, making them useful in a variety of industries. There are six types of asbestos, but we’ll focus on the three main players:
- Chrysotile: Also known as white asbestos, this is the most commonly used type. You might find it in roofing materials, brake linings, and even some textiles.
- Amosite: This brown asbestos is often found in insulation materials and cement sheets. It was widely used in construction during the mid-20th century.
- Crocidolite: Often referred to as blue asbestos, crocidolite is primarily used in insulation and is known for its durability. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most dangerous types of asbestos.
Asbestos found its way into many aspects of construction, insulation, and manufacturing due to its fire-resistant properties. Homes built before the 1980s are especially likely to contain asbestos in places like insulation, floor tiles, and roofing materials.
Why is Asbestos Dangerous? Risks You Can’t Ignore

Now that you know what asbestos is, let’s talk about why it’s a big deal. When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they can become airborne, and that’s when trouble starts. If you breathe in these tiny fibers, they can settle in your lungs and cause serious health issues. Here are a few of the risks you can’t ignore:
- Asbestosis: This chronic lung disease results from inhaling asbestos fibers. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. Over time, it can lead to significant lung damage.
- Mesothelioma: This rare but aggressive cancer primarily affects the lining of the lungs and abdomen. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often diagnosed in its later stages, making treatment challenging.
- Lung Cancer: Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, especially for those who smoke. It’s a deadly combination that can lead to devastating outcomes.
Check out this interactive map that shows the number of deaths in each state and county in the US between 1999 and 2017. The numbers are staggering and Texas has a shockingly high death toll.
Identifying Asbestos in Your Home
So, how do you know if your home contains asbestos? While it’s best to leave the testing to us, you can look for common materials that may harbor this hazardous substance. Here are a few places to check:

- Insulation: If your home was built before the 1980s, asbestos insulation may be around pipes, attics, or walls. Common types of asbestos insulation include loose-fill insulation, which looks like small white flakes, and pipe insulation, often found wrapped around hot water pipes. If you spot any old, damaged, or crumbling insulation, it’s best to leave it alone and call in the experts.
- Floor Tiles: Vinyl floor tiles manufactured before the 1980s may have asbestos in them. If you see tiles with a black backing, proceed with caution. Additionally, if you live in a home with old linoleum flooring, be aware that it can also contain asbestos. While it may look harmless, any peeling or lifting tiles could release fibers, so it’s wise to avoid any DIY repairs.
- Roofing Materials: Asbestos was often used in roofing shingles and coatings. If your roof is older and shows signs of wear or damage, like cracks or loose shingles, avoid trying to fix it yourself. Contact a professional to assess the condition safely.
- Popcorn Ceilings: If your home has that classic textured popcorn ceiling, there’s a chance it may contain asbestos, especially if it was installed before the 1980s. The texture was popular for hiding imperfections, but if you start to see pieces flaking off, it’s best to get an inspection before attempting any repairs or renovations.
- Cement Products: Asbestos cement was used in various building materials, including siding, pipes, and sheets. If your home has any old cement products, particularly around the exterior or in the basement, be cautious. Damaged cement can release fibers, so it’s best to consult with a professional before attempting any work on these materials.
- Electrical Insulation: In some older homes, electrical wiring may be insulated with asbestos material. If you’re doing any electrical work, and especially if you’re dealing with outdated wiring, make sure to have an inspection done to ensure your safety.
- Heating Systems: Older heating systems, particularly those that use ductwork for distribution, may have asbestos insulation around the ducts or on boiler pipes. If you notice any insulation that looks old or deteriorated, contact a professional for evaluation.

Signs to Look For
While knowing where to look is essential, it’s equally important to recognize signs that might indicate the presence of asbestos:
- Age of Your Home: If your home was built before the 1980s, it’s more likely to contain asbestos. Even if the materials appear intact, it’s worth having a professional evaluate them, especially during renovations.
- Condition of Materials: If you see signs of wear and tear—like cracking, crumbling, or water damage—this could increase the risk of fiber release. Materials that are in good condition are generally safer, but any signs of deterioration should prompt you to take action.
What to Do if You Suspect Asbestos
Remember: Don’t Disturb It!
Disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release harmful fibers into the air, posing a significant risk to you and your family. Here’s what you should do instead:
- Avoid DIY Projects: Even if you’re a handy person, resist the urge to tackle repairs involving suspect materials. This includes any activities that might generate dust or debris.
- Keep the Area Sealed: If you suspect a material contains asbestos, limit access to that area of your home. Use tape to seal off doors or vents leading to the space, and make sure children and pets stay away.
- Contact Professionals: Reach out to Howard Environmental for a thorough inspection. Our team can safely collect samples and send them for lab testing. If asbestos is found, we can guide you through the next steps with expert advice.
Asbestos Inspection Process: What to Expect
- Schedule an appointment: Simply reach out to us, and we’ll arrange a convenient time for your inspection.
- Conduct an assessment: Our team will perform a thorough inspection, collecting samples from suspect materials.
- Discuss lab results: Once we receive the lab results, we’ll sit down with you to discuss our findings and any necessary next steps. Our goal is to help you understand the situation fully.
Legal and Safety Regulations- What Are Your Rights?
These resources should be able to answer any questions you might have about the legal side of an asbestos issue:
- DSHS: Texas Asbestos Laws and Regulations
- DSHS: See if the Asbestos Program applies to you
- Austin Asbestos Legal Questions
- Braver Law Firm: Filing A Claim for Asbestos Exposure
Smart Steps to Prevent Asbestos Exposure

Keeping your family safe from asbestos exposure doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some smart steps you can take:
- Regular inspections of older homes: If your home was built before the 1980s, consider scheduling regular inspections to check for asbestos insulation or floor tiles.
- Awareness of renovation risks: Planning a home renovation? Be sure to consult with professionals to ensure you’re not disturbing any asbestos-containing materials.
- Keeping the home well-ventilated: Good ventilation helps reduce indoor air pollution and can minimize potential asbestos exposure.
Knowledge is Power: Your Armor Against Asbestos!
Remember, knowledge is your best defense against asbestos. Being informed about what asbestos is and the risks it poses can help you make smarter decisions for your family’s safety. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional guidance.
Ready for Peace of Mind? Call Howard Environmental Today to get Your Home Asbestos Inspection!
At Howard Environmental, we’re here to help you ensure your home is a safe haven for you and your family. If you suspect asbestos in your home or want to schedule an asbestos inspection, contact us today! Let’s work together to keep your family safe and sound. Your peace of mind is just a call away!