WhiskersWould a House Built in 1988 Have Asbestos?
Asbestos was a popular building material in Australia for many years due to its fire-resistant, insulating, and sound-absorbing properties. However, it has been linked to serious health problems, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, when inhaled. As a result, the use of asbestos has been phased out in Australia, and many homes built before 1990 may contain asbestos.Understanding the Use of Asbestos in Australia
To understand whether a house built in 1988 might contain asbestos, it's essential to understand the history of asbestos use in Australia. Asbestos was widely used in building materials from the 1940s to the 1980s. However, the use of asbestos in Australia began to decline in the 1980s and was eventually banned in 2003.It's important to note that the use of asbestos varied across different states and territories in Australia.
Some states, like Western Australia, banned asbestos earlier than others.Asbestos in Homes Built in 1988 and Earlier
A house built in 1988 is likely to contain asbestos. While the use of asbestos began to decline in the 1980s, it was still a common building material in the mid-1980s.Here are some common building materials that could contain asbestos in a home built in 1988: Roofing materials: Asbestos cement sheets, often used for roofing, were popular in Australia during this period.
Wall cladding: Asbestos cement sheeting was also used extensively for wall cladding, especially for exterior walls.Insulation: Asbestos was used as insulation in ceilings, walls, and under floors. Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles and some types of sheet flooring often contained asbestos.Underfloor linings: Asbestos-containing materials were frequently used as underfloor linings in homes built in the 1980s. Vermiculite: Vermiculite, a natural mineral sometimes containing asbestos, was used for insulation in houses built in the 1980s.Pipes: Asbestos cement pipes were used for drainage and water supply in some homes.Asbestos in Homes Built in 1986, 1987, and 1980
The years 1986, 1987, and 1980 also fall within the period when asbestos was commonly used in Australia. Homes built in these years are likely to contain asbestos in similar materials as those listed above.It's crucial to remember that asbestos use varied from house to house, and some houses built in these years might not contain asbestos.
However, it's always best to assume that older homes may contain asbestos until proven otherwise.Identifying Asbestos in Your Home
If you suspect your home built in 1988 might contain asbestos, it's best to contact a qualified asbestos assessor. They can conduct a thorough inspection of your property and identify any asbestos-containing materials.It's important to note that identifying asbestos yourself is not recommended as it can be dangerous.
Disturbing asbestos materials can release asbestos fibers into the air, which can be inhaled and lead to health problems.What to Do If You Discover Asbestos in Your Home
If asbestos is identified in your home, it's important to have it professionally managed. There are several options for managing asbestos, depending on the type of material and its condition. Some common options include:Encapsulation: This involves sealing the asbestos material to prevent the release of fibers.Removal: This involves removing the asbestos material entirely. Removal should only be carried out by a licensed asbestos removal contractor.Encasement: This involves building a barrier around the asbestos-containing material to prevent it from being disturbed.It's essential to follow the advice of your asbestos assessor regarding the best course of action for your home.
They will consider factors such as the type and condition of the asbestos, the location of the material, and the risks associated with it.Managing Asbestos in Your Home
Even if asbestos is not actively being disturbed, there are some things you can do to minimize the risk of exposure: Avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials: Do not attempt to remove or repair asbestos yourself.Keep asbestos materials in good condition: If you have asbestos-containing materials in your home, ensure they are well-maintained and not damaged.Ventilate your home: Open windows and doors when doing work in areas where asbestos may be present. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment: If you must disturb asbestos-containing materials, wear a respirator mask, gloves, and protective clothing.Get regular asbestos testing: If you have concerns about asbestos in your home, have your home tested regularly by a qualified asbestos assessor.Seeking Professional Advice
While this information provides some general guidance, it's crucial to seek professional advice from a qualified asbestos assessor or a licensed asbestos removal contractor. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation and ensure that asbestos is managed safely and effectively in your home.Remember, the health and safety of you and your family are paramount.
Being proactive and knowledgeable about asbestos in your home can help to minimize the risks associated with this hazardous material.