How To Tell Asbestos Siding

If your siding fits either of these descriptions you should consider having it tested.

How to tell asbestos siding.

Roofing and siding shingles are among the most common materials to contain asbestos and will readily release fibers into the air if broken. Asbestos ranks high on the list of dangerous substances because of its toxic and carcinogenic properties when airborne. Most older cement board products contain asbestos. Put on a mask and scrape away some siding material into a baggie.

Testing your siding for asbestos. These shingles are generally 12 by 24 inches and the bottom tends to have a wave like pattern though that is not always the case. The siding may also contain asbestos if it is old with a wood grain texture to resemble cedar. While older homes will likely contain asbestos in roofing insulation and tiles it can also be present in exterior siding.

Asbestos was particularly prevalent in siding that resembles shingles or was made to look like wood grain. If your siding has these characteristics then asbestos could be present. If you suspect that your siding may contain asbestos there is no need for alarm. Identifying asbestos siding the only way to be sure if your siding has asbestos in it is to collect a sample and send it to an accredited testing lab.

Asbestos was used to make several exterior materials. Asbestos was also put into cement used on the exterior of buildings to help insulate the.