Despite more than fifty years of asbestos regulations in the United States, mesothelioma diagnoses and deaths continue to climb. According to a recent report from Healio, experts say the long latency period of asbestos-related diseases means that exposures from decades ago—many occurring in older homes and buildings—are still causing new cases today.
For homeowners living in properties built before 1980, this news serves as an important reminder. Asbestos was widely used in construction materials until the late 1970s. If your home was built during this era and has never been tested, there is a real possibility that asbestos-containing materials are still present in your walls, floors, ceilings, or insulation.
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Why Cases Are Still Rising
Mesothelioma is a cancer most commonly linked to asbestos exposure. What makes it particularly dangerous is its long latency period. A person exposed to asbestos fibers today may not develop symptoms for 20 to 50 years. This means the cases being diagnosed now often trace back to exposures that happened decades ago—in workplaces, schools, and homes where asbestos materials were common.
Even though most uses of asbestos have been halted, the material remains in millions of older structures across the country. The report notes that exposures from these older homes and buildings continue to drive new diagnoses. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed during renovations, repairs, or natural deterioration, microscopic fibers can be released into the environment.
Where Asbestos Hides in Pre-1980 Homes
Homeowners should be aware of the most common locations where asbestos may be found:
- Floor tiles and adhesives – Vinyl floor tiles manufactured before 1980 often contained asbestos, as did the black mastic adhesive used to install them.
- Insulation – Pipe insulation, attic insulation, and vermiculite insulation may contain asbestos fibers.
- Ceiling tiles and textured coatings – Popcorn ceilings and acoustic tiles were frequently made with asbestos for fireproofing.
- Siding and roofing – Cement siding, roofing shingles, and felt were common asbestos-containing products.
- HVAC components – Duct tape, duct insulation, and furnace components may contain asbestos.
These materials are generally not dangerous when left undisturbed and in good condition. However, any renovation, demolition, or repair work that cuts, sands, or breaks these materials can release asbestos fibers.
What Homeowners Should Do
If you live in a home built before 1980, the safest approach is to test suspect materials before starting any renovation or repair project. You cannot identify asbestos just by looking at a material—laboratory testing is required to confirm its presence.
Professional asbestos inspections can be expensive and time-consuming. Many homeowners are turning to certified mail-in testing as a practical first step. By collecting a small sample of suspect material and sending it to an accredited laboratory, you can get clear answers about what is in your home.
If asbestos is confirmed, you have options. Materials in good condition can often be left in place and monitored. Materials that are damaged or will be disturbed during renovations should be handled by licensed asbestos abatement professionals.
Protecting Your Family Before You Renovate
With home renovation activity remaining strong across the country, experts urge homeowners to test first and renovate second. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials without proper precautions can expose everyone in the home to dangerous fibers. These fibers are invisible to the naked eye and can remain airborne for hours after being released.
The rising mesothelioma statistics are a sobering reminder that asbestos remains a present-day concern, not just a problem of the past. For homeowners in pre-1980 properties, knowing what materials are in your home is the first step toward keeping your family safe. The MycoTest DIY Asbestos Test offers certified lab results with digital delivery, giving you the information you need before your next project.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my home has asbestos?
You cannot identify asbestos by sight alone—it requires laboratory testing. If your home was built before 1980, materials like floor tiles, insulation, ceiling tiles, and siding may contain asbestos. Collecting a sample and sending it to a certified lab is the only way to know for sure.
Is it safe to live in a house with asbestos?
Asbestos-containing materials that are in good condition and left undisturbed generally do not pose an immediate health risk. The danger arises when these materials are damaged, deteriorating, or disturbed during renovation or repair work, which can release fibers into the air.
Should I test for asbestos before renovating an older home?
Yes. Any renovation work that involves cutting, drilling, sanding, or demolishing materials in a pre-1980 home should be preceded by asbestos testing. This protects you, your family, and any contractors working in your home. A DIY asbestos test kit provides certified lab results so you can plan your project safely.
Sources
Healio: Mesothelioma cases, deaths continue to rise despite asbestos regulations
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. MycoTest DIY kits are screening tools. For confirmed contamination, consult a certified environmental professional.
