From the 1970s through the 1990s, asbestos was commonly used in the construction industry due to its durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties. Unfortunately, while these qualities made it a seemingly ideal building material, they also posed severe health hazards. Asbestos exposure has been directly linked to several diseases, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. During the late 20th century, a growing awareness of these dangers led to increased regulation and eventual bans in many countries. However, buildings constructed during this time still pose risks during renovation or demolition. Understanding which materials commonly contained asbestos can help ensure safe practices in construction and restoration work today.
This article outlines the most prevalent construction materials that contained asbestos from the 1970s to the 1990s, offering insight into where asbestos might still be found and why it’s crucial to handle such materials with care.
Why Asbestos Was Used in Construction
Asbestos was widely adopted in construction because of its:
- Fire resistance
- Chemical stability
- Insulating capabilities (thermal and acoustic)
- Tensile strength and durability
These properties made asbestos a versatile additive to many construction materials, particularly in climates or settings that demanded high performance and low maintenance.
1. Asbestos Cement Products
One of the most common asbestos-containing products in construction was asbestos cement, a mixture of cement and asbestos fibers.
Common Forms:
- Roofing sheets (corrugated)
- Wall cladding
- Flat sheets and ceiling panels
- Vent pipes and flues
These products were popular because they were lightweight, strong, and resistant to weather and fire.
Health Risks:
Cutting or breaking asbestos cement products can release fibers into the air, posing inhalation risks.
Reference:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2023). Asbestos in Your Home. https://www.epa.gov/asbestos
2. Thermal Insulation Materials
From the 1970s to early 1980s, asbestos was heavily used in thermal insulation, especially around mechanical systems.
Used in:
- Boiler insulation
- Pipe lagging
- Ductwork wraps
- Hot water tanks
Insulation was often sprayed on or wrapped in blankets, making it friable and dangerous when disturbed.
Notable Product:
- Zonolite insulation, a brand containing vermiculite contaminated with asbestos.
Reference:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). (2021). Vermiculite and Asbestos. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov
3. Floor Tiles and Adhesives
Vinyl asbestos floor tiles were standard in both residential and commercial properties. They typically measured 9×9 inches, though some 12×12 versions also contained asbestos.
Materials Containing Asbestos:
- Vinyl floor tiles
- Sheet flooring (linoleum)
- Black mastic (adhesive)
Over time, wear and tear can make these tiles brittle and friable.
Safe Practice:
Old tiles should not be sanded, ground, or removed without proper containment.
Reference:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (1995). Flooring and Asbestos. https://www.osha.gov
4. Ceiling Tiles and Sprayed Acoustic Textures
Asbestos was widely incorporated into ceiling products for its sound-dampening and fire-resistant qualities.
Common Types:
- Drop ceiling tiles
- Textured acoustic “popcorn” ceilings
- Spray-applied fireproofing insulation
These materials became particularly common in office buildings, schools, and mid-century homes.
Key Concerns:
Acoustic textures are highly friable and release fibers easily during renovation or even from vibrations.
Reference:
National Cancer Institute. (2022). Asbestos Exposure and Cancer Risk. https://www.cancer.gov
5. Wall Plasters and Joint Compounds
Before asbestos regulations tightened in the late 1980s, many joint compounds and plaster products were asbestos-laden.
Uses:
- Drywall seam fillers
- Plaster patching materials
- Textured paints
The sanding or scraping of these surfaces can release fibers into the air.
Regulatory Action:
The EPA issued a partial ban on asbestos-containing joint compounds in the late 1970s, though stockpiles continued to be used into the early 1980s.
Reference:
Environmental Working Group. (2017). Hidden Asbestos in Building Materials. https://www.ewg.org
6. Roofing Materials
Asbestos was widely used in roofing products because of its ability to withstand UV rays, temperature extremes, and fire.
Roofing Materials That Contained Asbestos:
- Shingles
- Tar paper (felt)
- Flashing
- Sealants and mastics
Although many manufacturers began phasing out asbestos in roofing products by the mid-1980s, older buildings still often contain these materials.
Reference:
National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). (2019). Asbestos in Roofing. https://www.nrca.net
7. Fireproof Doors and Panels
Asbestos was used in fire-rated doors, wallboards, and panels in areas where fireproofing was essential, such as stairwells and elevator shafts.
Examples:
- Fireproof door cores
- Elevator shaft linings
- Wall barriers in industrial settings
Many of these components appear benign but can release asbestos during drilling or demolition.
Reference:
International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). (2012). Asbestos (Chrysotile, Amosite, Crocidolite). https://monographs.iarc.who.int
8. HVAC Duct Insulation
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems often used asbestos-containing wraps and coatings for thermal control.
Common Forms:
- Asbestos tape and wraps on ducts
- Sprayed coatings in duct chases
- Gaskets and air sealants
Since these systems circulate air, damaged insulation can disperse fibers widely.
Reference:
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). (2020). Asbestos in Building Components. https://www.hud.gov
9. Electrical Insulation
Asbestos was used to insulate electrical wires, circuit breakers, and electrical panels, especially in commercial or industrial buildings.
Common Products:
- Arc chutes in electrical boxes
- Insulated cable coverings
- Panel backings
Electricians working in buildings constructed in the 1970s or 1980s should take special precautions.
Reference:
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2019). Asbestos-Containing Electrical Materials. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh
Health Risks Associated with Asbestos Exposure
Exposure to asbestos fibers, especially over long periods or at high concentrations, can cause serious diseases:
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
- Lung cancer
- Pleural plaques
These diseases often have long latency periods, meaning symptoms might not appear for 20–50 years after exposure.
Reference:
World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Asbestos: Elimination of Asbestos-Related Diseases. https://www.who.int
Recognizing and Managing Asbestos in Buildings Today
Despite regulatory efforts, many buildings from the 1970s to 1990s still contain asbestos. Identification often requires professional asbestos surveys and laboratory testing. When asbestos is confirmed:
- Do not disturb the material.
- Use licensed abatement professionals.
- Follow local and federal guidelines for disposal.
Some asbestos materials in good condition may be left in place and encapsulated rather than removed.
Conclusion
Asbestos was a mainstay of construction from the 1970s to 1990s due to its fire resistance, insulation properties, and cost-effectiveness. Unfortunately, its widespread use has left a toxic legacy in homes, schools, and workplaces. Identifying and safely managing these materials is essential to protect public health today. Understanding where asbestos is commonly found—in floor tiles, roofing, insulation, and other building materials—is the first step in ensuring safer construction practices in older buildings.
References
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2023). Asbestos in Your Home. https://www.epa.gov/asbestos
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). (2021). Vermiculite and Asbestos. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (1995). Flooring and Asbestos. https://www.osha.gov
- National Cancer Institute. (2022). Asbestos Exposure and Cancer Risk. https://www.cancer.gov
- Environmental Working Group (EWG). (2017). Hidden Asbestos in Building Materials. https://www.ewg.org
- National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). (2019). Asbestos in Roofing. https://www.nrca.net
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). (2012). Asbestos. https://monographs.iarc.who.int
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). (2020). Asbestos in Building Components. https://www.hud.gov
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2019). Asbestos-Containing Electrical Materials. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Elimination of Asbestos-Related Diseases. https://www.who.int
