One of the most common places to find asbestos in New Zealand homes, particularly those built or renovated before the late 1980s, is within insulation materials. Asbestos was a popular choice for insulation due to its excellent thermal resistance and fire-retardant properties. It can be found in wall insulation, attic spaces, and wrapped around pipes and boilers. This type of asbestos may appear as loose-fill insulation in attics, resembling fluffy, light material or as more rigid boards or wraps around pipes.
Identifying asbestos insulation requires a keen eye and knowledge of what to look for. The material itself can range in colour from white to brown and is often hidden behind walls, under floors, or above ceilings. Due to the hazardous nature of asbestos fibres, it's crucial not to disturb suspected materials. Instead, homeowners should seek the expertise of a professional asbestos assessor who can safely take samples for laboratory testing to confirm the presence of asbestos.
Asbestos was also widely used in the manufacturing of flooring and ceiling tiles. In floors, it's often found in vinyl tiles and the adhesive used to secure them to the subfloor. These tiles may not pose a significant risk if they remain intact and undisturbed, but they can become hazardous during renovations or if they deteriorate over time. Similarly, ceiling tiles, including the spray-on "popcorn" texture that was popular for its acoustic properties and ease of application, may contain asbestos. This texture is particularly prone to releasing fibres if scraped, drilled into, or otherwise disturbed.
For New Zealand homeowners contemplating renovations or updates to their homes, it's essential to consider the potential for asbestos in these areas. The appearance of these materials alone cannot confirm the presence of asbestos; professional testing is necessary to ensure safety. If asbestos is suspected in flooring or ceiling tiles, it's advisable to leave the material undisturbed and consult with an asbestos removal specialist who can assess the best course of action.
One of the more enduring applications of asbestos in residential construction was in roofing shingles and siding panels. Asbestos cement, known for its exceptional durability and resistance to fire and weathering, became a material of choice for exterior coverings. In New Zealand, homes built or renovated before the 1980s might still have these asbestos-containing materials as part of their structure.
The appeal of asbestos cement for roofing and siding lay not only in its longevity but also in its ability to protect against the elements, making it particularly suitable for New Zealand's varied climate. However, while intact asbestos cement poses a lower risk of fibre release, damage or wear over time can increase the risk of exposure. Homeowners should be cautious of any crumbling or damaged areas on their roofs or siding and avoid disturbing these materials. Professional assessment is recommended to determine the condition of the asbestos and the best course of action for management or removal.
Asbestos was also a popular additive in textured paints and coatings, applied to walls and ceilings to achieve a decorative finish or to provide fireproofing qualities. These applications were particularly common in commercial buildings but were also used in residential properties. The textured "popcorn" ceilings that were fashionable in the mid-20th century often contained asbestos fibres to add texture and improve fire resistance.
The risk associated with textured paints and coatings containing asbestos becomes significant during renovation or removal. Sanding, scraping, or otherwise disturbing these finishes can release asbestos fibres into the air, posing a health risk to occupants and workers. Homeowners planning to update or remove old textured finishes should first have them tested for asbestos. If asbestos is present, professional removal under safe conditions is essential to prevent exposure.
Pipe lagging, the insulation used to cover pipes to prevent heat loss or gain, frequently contained asbestos, especially in systems installed before the 1980s. The use of asbestos in lagging took advantage of its excellent thermal insulation properties, ensuring that heating systems operated efficiently and safely. However, as these materials age, the risk they pose to homeowners and occupants becomes increasingly significant.
Over time, asbestos-containing pipe lagging can deteriorate or be inadvertently damaged, particularly during renovations, plumbing repairs, or even through routine maintenance. When this happens, the asbestos fibres can become airborne, posing a serious health risk to anyone exposed. The fibrous nature of deteriorating lagging means it can easily release fibres into the environment, where they can be inhaled by occupants, leading to potential respiratory issues and diseases.
Asbestos was also used in the manufacture of concrete pipes, utilised primarily for their strength and durability in sewer and water systems. While less likely to release fibres into the air under normal conditions, the cutting, breaking, or drilling of these pipes can generate asbestos dust, presenting a hazard during construction or demolition activities. As these pipes age or if they become damaged, there is a risk of asbestos contamination to the surrounding environment, including soil and water.
The presence of asbestos in concrete pipes underscores the need for caution during any work that involves disturbing these materials. Homeowners undertaking landscaping projects, extensions, or any activity that might impact underground pipes should be particularly vigilant.
Identifying and managing the risks associated with asbestos in pipe lagging and concrete pipes requires a cautious and informed approach. Homeowners suspecting the presence of asbestos in their property’s piping should refrain from attempting to remove or disturb the material themselves. Instead, engaging the services of a professional asbestos removal company is advised. These experts can assess the condition of the material, take samples for analysis, and recommend the safest course of action, whether it be encapsulation, removal, or ongoing monitoring.
For New Zealand homeowners, understanding the potential presence of asbestos in pipe lagging and concrete pipes is crucial. Awareness and appropriate management of these materials can significantly reduce the risk of asbestos exposure, safeguarding the health of occupants and the wider community.
