A Tennessee elementary school is making headlines this week as crews begin removing asbestos from the aging building. Jefferson Elementary School in Jefferson County has started a major asbestos abatement project — the first step in a $24 million renovation that will take about two years to complete. The project is a reminder that many older buildings in Tennessee still contain this dangerous material.
Tennessee homeowners face several environmental risks tied to the state's older housing stock. Many homes built before 1980 may contain asbestos in floor tiles, pipe insulation, and other building materials. MycoTest's state-by-state environmental hazard map shows elevated risk in Tennessee, where older homes, flood-prone areas, and aging infrastructure create multiple hazards for families.
At Jefferson Elementary, workers are removing asbestos floor tiles and pipe insulation before any other upgrades can begin. Summer school students have been moved to another campus while the work takes place. The school also has aging infrastructure issues, including occasional sewage leaks that the renovation will address.
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What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?
Asbestos is a natural mineral fiber that was widely used in construction materials for decades. Builders liked it because it resists heat and fire. You can find asbestos in many parts of older homes, including:
- Floor tiles and the adhesive beneath them
- Insulation around pipes, boilers, and ducts
- Roofing and siding shingles
- Textured paints and ceiling tiles
- Cement products
Asbestos becomes a health concern when materials break down or get disturbed during renovation. Tiny fibers can be released into the air. When people breathe in these fibers over time, they can cause serious lung problems. That is why schools like Jefferson Elementary must remove asbestos before doing any major construction work.
Why Homeowners Should Pay Attention
The Jefferson Elementary project cost $24 million — but the lessons apply to homes of any size. Many Tennessee homes were built in the same era as this school. If you live in a house built before 1980, there is a real chance it contains asbestos somewhere.
The biggest risk comes when you disturb asbestos materials. This can happen during:
- Home renovations or remodeling
- Removing old flooring or ceiling tiles
- Replacing insulation
- Repairing damaged walls or pipes
Before starting any renovation project in an older home, experts recommend testing suspicious materials first. This simple step can help you avoid accidentally releasing asbestos fibers into your living space.
How to Protect Your Family
The good news is that asbestos materials in good condition usually do not pose a risk. Problems start when materials are damaged, crumbling, or disturbed by renovation work. Here are some steps homeowners can take:
- Know your home's age. Homes built before 1980 are more likely to contain asbestos.
- Look for warning signs. Crumbling insulation, damaged floor tiles, or deteriorating pipe wrapping may contain asbestos.
- Test before you renovate. A simple material test can tell you if asbestos is present.
- Hire professionals for removal. If asbestos is confirmed, licensed abatement contractors should handle removal.
Tennessee homeowners planning summer renovations should take note of the Jefferson Elementary timeline. The school's two-year project shows that proper asbestos abatement takes careful planning. For homeowners, testing materials before starting work is a smart first step that can save time, money, and health concerns down the road. The DIY Asbestos Test from MycoTest lets you collect a sample from any material in your home and get certified lab results with digital delivery — no inspector appointment needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Tennessee home has asbestos?
Homes built before 1980 are most likely to contain asbestos in floor tiles, insulation, and other materials. You cannot tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it. The only way to know for sure is to have a sample tested by a certified laboratory.
Is it safe to stay in a home with asbestos?
Asbestos materials that are in good condition and not disturbed generally do not release fibers. The risk increases when materials are damaged, crumbling, or disturbed during renovation. If you suspect asbestos, avoid disturbing the area and consider testing the material before making any changes.
Can I test for asbestos myself or do I need a professional?
You can collect a material sample yourself using a DIY asbestos test kit. The sample is sent to a certified lab for analysis. This approach is faster and more affordable than hiring an inspector for initial screening. If asbestos is confirmed, you should then hire a licensed professional for safe removal.
Sources
WBIR: Jefferson County elementary school asbestos abatement project underway
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.
