The Hidden Dangers of Aging Asbestos: When Is It Time for Removal?
Asbestos was once considered a reliable material for insulation, fireproofing, and durability. However, it is now widely recognized as a serious health hazard. Asbestos exposure can lead to severe lung diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.
Many property owners believe that asbestos is only dangerous when disturbed, but aging asbestos can break down over time, increasing exposure risks even without direct interference. If your home or commercial building was built before the 1980s, it is essential to understand how asbestos deteriorates and when removal is necessary.
How Does Asbestos Age and Deteriorate?
Although asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were designed for durability, they are not immune to environmental conditions and natural aging. Asbestos materials weaken and release fibers due to:
• Moisture and Water Damage – Roof leaks, flooding, or high humidity can cause asbestos insulation and ceiling tiles to degrade.
• Temperature Changes – Freezing winters and humid summers in Western New York can cause asbestos materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks.
• Vibration and Settling – Older buildings naturally settle over time, which can cause asbestos-containing walls, ceilings, or floors to break apart.
• Airborne Contaminants – Mold growth, dust accumulation, and general wear can weaken asbestos materials, increasing fiber release.
Once asbestos materials start breaking down, microscopic fibers can become airborne, creating serious health risks.
Signs That Aging Asbestos May Be a Health Hazard
If your building contains older asbestos materials, watch for these warning signs:
• Cracking or Flaking Ceilings and Walls – Asbestos plaster, tiles, and coatings may begin to deteriorate.
• Deteriorating Pipe and Boiler Insulation – Many older buildings have asbestos-wrapped pipes that can crumble over time.
• Worn or Damaged Vinyl Flooring – Older vinyl tiles and adhesives often contain asbestos. If they are curling, breaking, or deteriorating, fibers could be released.
• Dust Buildup Near Vents or Attics – Asbestos fibers can become airborne and settle on surfaces, particularly in HVAC systems.
• Water-Damaged Walls and Ceilings – Water exposure can weaken asbestos materials, increasing fiber release into the air.
If you notice any of these signs, do not attempt to remove asbestos yourself. Disturbing it without proper safety measures can release harmful fibers into the air.
When Is It Time for Asbestos Removal?
Not all asbestos materials require immediate removal, but there are clear situations where professional abatement is necessary.
Your Building Was Built Before the 1980s
If your property was constructed before asbestos regulations were in place, it is important to schedule an inspection to check for aging ACMs.
Renovations or Demolition Are Planned
Disturbing walls, floors, or ceilings containing asbestos without proper containment can create serious exposure risks. An inspection should always be performed before any remodeling or demolition work.
Asbestos Materials Are Visibly Deteriorating
If asbestos-containing materials are cracked, crumbling, or damaged, the safest option is to hire professionals for removal.
Unexplained Respiratory Issues
If you or others in the building frequently experience coughing, shortness of breath, or other respiratory issues, airborne asbestos could be the cause.
When in doubt, consulting an asbestos removal expert is the safest choice.
How R.E.D. Handles Safe Asbestos Abatement
At Regional Environmental Demolition Inc. (R.E.D.), we provide certified asbestos inspection, testing, and removal services across Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Western New York.
Our asbestos abatement process includes:
• Full Inspection and Testing – Identifying all asbestos materials in your home or business.
• Sealed Containment Areas – Preventing fibers from escaping into the air.
• HEPA Air Filtration and Protective Gear – Ensuring safe removal and proper ventilation.
• Hazardous Waste Disposal – Transporting asbestos to approved disposal facilities following all EPA and OSHA regulations.
Our team follows strict compliance protocols to ensure asbestos removal is completed safely and effectively.
Do Not Wait Until It’s Too Late
Asbestos exposure is a long-term health risk, and aging asbestos materials do not need to be disturbed to become hazardous. If your home or business was built before the 1980s, it is important to stay ahead of potential risks with professional asbestos inspections and safe removal.
At R.E.D., we are Western New York’s trusted asbestos abatement experts. Whether you need a routine inspection or full asbestos removal, our team is licensed, experienced, and ready to help.
Concerned about aging asbestos in your home or business? Contact R.E.D. today for a professional asbestos inspection and removal consultation. Do not take risks with asbestos.
