5 Most Common Asbestos Containing Materials

Asbestos was once hailed as a wonder material. It was cheap, flexible, strong and fire resistant so it was used throughout the construction industry.

We regularly warn about the dangers associated with asbestos and how exposure can be avoided. In this post we will look at the five most common ACM’s (Asbestos containing materials).

Lagging / Insulation

Asbestos was used in pipe lagging found in boiler houses, attics and heating rooms. It was used to protect pipes and there were many different colours. This type will easily flake if disturbed.

Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)

AIB was famously used in the old suspended ceiling tiles many of us seen at school. It was used in soffits, windows linings and even as bath panels. Partition walls, attic doors and under stair “cubbyhole” doors. AIB was used on doors as a fire proofing measure. You might find AIB in places you would least expect as it has been used as packers in the building trade.

Asbestos Floor Tiles

Strong and durable asbestos was added to vinyl flooring to make them last longer and create strength. As with anything that contains asbestos working with these tiles can release dangerous asbestos fibres into the air.

Textured Coatings

One famous brand of textured coating is Artex. Not all contain asbestos but some do. Patterns were made on walls and ceilings and often painted. Usually the only way to tell if asbestos is present is to sample and test. You should always contact an asbestos surveyor before disturbing textured coatings as asbestos could be present.

Asbestos Cement

Asbestos cement products include corrugated roofing, guttering, downspouts, wall cladding, pipes and sewer pipes. As with all asbestos based products they can be dangerous and it is advised to consult a professional before anything is disturbed.

Do I Need An Asbestos Survey?

If you suspect that asbestos may be present or you are going to be carrying out refurbishment works then an asbestos survey is advisable. Asbestos was used right up until 1999 (and possibly beyond) until it was banned in the UK.

We carry out professional asbestos surveys across Northern Ireland. You will receive a full asbestos report written in plain English that will detail all you need to know. More importantly it will help keep you safe from any exposure. Call us today!