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 Asbestos is one of the most commonly used building materials of the twentieth century. Its flexible properties, cheapness and easiness of processing made it ideal for a great many building applications. Its use only declined when terminal illnesses were associated with its usage. Its supply and use in the UK has now been banned.
However most premises constructed between 1950 - 1980 will contain some asbestos. In addition, premises that were refurbished, or have had extensions added to them within this period are also likely to contain some asbestos products.
Asbestos is a group of microscopic natural minerals that are naturally fire resistant and flexible. These qualities were used widely several years ago in many applications such as pipe and building insulation, roofing, carpet underlay, ceiling, wall and floor tiles, patching compounds, vehicle brake pads, ironing board pads, electrical wiring, textured paints, cements, and many more applications across both domestic and industrial environments.
Usually there are other materials present which prevent the asbestos particles from being released into the air. However, when these materials become damaged, the danger becomes very real.
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