Asbestos has been used for centuries as an addition to textiles, pottery, and eventually, construction materials. It became well known in the United States during the 70s but was being used as early as 3000 BC. Asbestos was found to be dangerous decades ago but is still being used in some industries, despite being the cause of mesothelioma and other illnesses. Asbestos has been used in industrial factories and home construction. While asbestos has been founded to cause cancer, it is still legal in the United States. Asbestos exposure doesn’t show symptoms for years and even decades. It is known to lay dormant in the body before turning into respiratory problems, asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Egyptians, Romans, and Persians were some of the first to find use out of asbestos fibers. The fibers grew naturally and were used for insulation, pottery, and clothing. In 1828 asbestos was being used in construction throughout the United States. In 1906 we saw our first asbestos-related illness, as it was mentioned in medical literature. Asbestos-related diseases were actually revealed in 1964, and in 1979 the EPA announced that asbestos fibers were a carcinogen and started to ban its use.

While asbestos has caused illnesses for many decades, the fibers are still used in trace amounts. Many homes that were built in the 80s and even 90s are known to contain asbestos. Asbestos was used in insulation and roofing because of its ability to be heat resistant. Asbestos was also used in textured paint and popcorn ceilings. Asbestos cannot be seen and must be tested for by a licensed professional. If your home is older, have it tested for asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos Abatement Services provides professional asbestos testing and removal to both residential and commercial properties. Asbestos is highly hazardous to your health, and your home or business should be tested as soon as possible.