One of the biggest blights on the global construction industry is the use of asbestos in the last century. This
widespread problem spread its roots across the globe, and unfortunately New Zealand was no exception.
There’s a great reason why asbestos had such a widespread adoption across multiple industries. When it’s use was
discovered in the 1930’s, its unique properties were considered to be the pinnacle of material sciences and a complete
game changer. Due to its unique fibrous properties, asbestos is a material that not only makes materials significantly
stronger without adding weight, but also increases its insulation properties and fire resistance. This made it an ideal
inclusion for a range of different applications, from oven mitts and ironing boards, to fireproof blankets and perhaps
the most disastrous, building materials.
Asbestos went from being the construction industry's gold standard to one of it’s biggest regrets.
So what exactly is asbestos? Asbestos refers to six naturally occuring silicates. Each of these silicates are made up of
thin crystals with each one of their fibres being comprised of microscopic fibres. By adding asbestos to a wide array of
building materials, such as concrete, under vinyl tiles and corrugated iron, builders looked to take advantage of
increased structural integrity, superior insulation and resistance in both residential and industrial construction
projects. The use of asbestos played a major role in the construction industry from the early 1930s all the way through
to the late 1980s, at which point the health risks of asbestos were undeniable.
The problem with these microscopic fibres is that they can be released into the atmosphere as tiny particles,
undetectable to the human eye, through abrasion and a multitude of other building processes. These particles contaminate
the air and surrounding area. If inhaled, they pose a significant hazard to the human respiratory system, not being able
to be removed, and potentially causing an irreversible, severe lung condition known as “asbestosis” as well as cancer.What Are the Different Types of Asbestos?
Asbestos comes in a few different varieties that were used for different purposes.Chrysotile Asbestos
Chrysotile asbestos is the most commonly used form of asbestos, and is often referred to as “white asbestos”. Its
versatility means it was adopted in a wide array of applications. While naturally occurring chrysotile contains trace
amounts of amphitle types of asbestos that increases its toxicity, even in isolation its fibers are capable of causing
severe, life threatening illness. Some of its applications include:AdhesivesCementBrake PAdsFireproofingDrywallInsulationRoofingVinyl TilesGasketsAmosite Asbestos
Also known as “brown asbestos”, it is a common form of asbestos often used in the building industry. Exposure to amosite
asbestos is linked to inducing a higher risk of cancer when compared to other forms of asbestos. It was commonly used
for:Fire protectionCement SheetsInsulationRoofing ProductsVinyl TilesGasketsCrocidolite Asbestos
The extremely thin fibres that make up crocidolite asbestos makes it notably dangerous, and is thought to have caused
the most deaths in comparison to other types of asbestos. These thin fibres easily lodge into lung tissue, which causes
a wealth of respiratory issues and diseases that are irreversible. Crocidolite asbestos was used in:Ceiling TilesCement SheetsFireproofingInsulationAcid storage battery casingsAnthophyllite Asbestos
Due to there not being a long history of anthophyllite asbestos in commercial use, it is the rarest form of asbestos that you’re likely to come across. However it was used in certain cases including:CementInsulationRoofingRubberWhat Buildings are Likely to Have Asbestos? Where Would it Be Found?
There was a wide window of rime in which the use of asbestos was abundant. While the use of asbestos was at its peak in
the 1980s, it still was used in some instances all the way up to the 2000s. If your home or industrial property was
built within this era, there is a chance that it may use materials that are contaminated with asbestos.
Here are the most common areas asbestos can be found in residential and commercial buildings. If you are concerned about
any of these features in your home or commercial building, it is best to get in contact with the experts at Advance Environmental Services:Roof
The most common instance of asbestos being used in roofing is in corrugated cement roofs, also known as super six
roofing or decramastic roof tiles. If this is the case, there’s a high chance that the gutters and downpipes are also
contaminated by asbestos. If you suspect this may be the case with your property, high pressure cleaning should be
avoided at all costs.Exterior Cladding
There are a variety of exterior cladding styles that contain asbestos including flat corrugated, flat sheet and even
imitation stone or brick cladding. Stucco cladding is used at times to conceal asbestos cement boards, so take care when
removing them.Gutters, Downpipes, Spouting and Rain Headers
As stated above, downpipes and gutters that accompany super six roofing or decramastic roofs can also be contaminated
with asbestos. They usually have a cement-like appearance.Ceilings
While most people are aware of textured ceilings (often referred to as “popcorn ceilings”) as being a red flag for
asbestos contamination, it still pays to keep in mind that ceiling tiles are also a risk factor.Electrical Meter Boards. Fuses and Fuse Backings
The use of asbestos in electrical meter boards, fuses and fuse backings was commonplace in buildings constructed prior
to 1983. If your building falls into this time period and has not been renovated since, it is crucial that you do not
attempt to sample or remove it yourself, as you risk both exposure to asbestos as well as an electrical hazard.Vinyl Floors
Due to the popularity of vinyl floors across New Zealand, it can be extremely difficult to tell whether the vinyl tiles
are ones backed with asbestos or woven into the matrix of the vinyl itself until it's too late. When it comes to
removing vinyl floors, it is best to get an expert to take a look at it.
There is a range of other features that are potential signs of asbestos contamination, such as water tanks, fire places
and even soil. If you suspect your building has asbestos contamination, it is crucial that you do not undertake the
removal process on your own accord. Doing so not only runs the risk of you being exposed to potentially deadly levels of
asbestos, but also exacerbating the problem and contaminating the area surrounding it. It takes a qualified, highly
experienced team equipped with the right tools to get the job done safely. If you are concerned about asbestos
contamination, get in contact with the team at Advance Environmental Specialists today!