The Real Story of Stucco and Asbestos
Stucco is a common exterior finish material made of cement, sand, and water. Asbestos, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials such as insulation and flooring until it was banned in the 1980s due to its negative health effects. Asbestos use in building materials has raised concerns about its potential presence in other building materials, including stucco.
Asbestos Exposure Dangers
Asbestos exposure can cause serious health problems such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. These health effects may not manifest for decades after exposure, making it critical to take precautions to avoid asbestos exposure.
Stucco and Asbestos: True or False?
While stucco does not normally contain asbestos, some older stucco products, particularly those manufactured prior to the 1980s when asbestos was commonly used in construction materials, may contain trace amounts of asbestos. It is important to note, however, that the levels of asbestos in stucco are typically very low, posing little risk to homeowners.
Finding Asbestos in Your Home
If you are worried about the presence of asbestos in your home, you should have a professional asbestos inspection performed. During an asbestos inspection, samples of materials suspected of containing asbestos will be collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. If asbestos is discovered, a trained asbestos professional can advise on how to safely remove or encapsulate the material in order to reduce the risk of exposure.
Stucco is typically not made with asbestos, and any asbestos found in stucco products is usually in very low concentrations. While it is critical to be aware of the risks associated with asbestos exposure, it is also critical to recognize that the risks associated with stucco are minimal. If you are concerned about the presence of asbestos in your home, you should have a professional asbestos inspection performed to identify any potential hazards and to take appropriate precautions to reduce the risk of exposure.
