Asbestos is a mineral with a molecular structure that permits separation into individual fibers. The individual fibers are too small, unrefined, and abrasive for use. However, when combined with other materials, it binds well to form an effective and useful combination.

People used asbestos for the same reason they used asphalt – less maintenance and more staying power. No need to worry about costly painting jobs, termites, or ants. Of course, asbestos had a definite edge over asphalt because it was heat, fire, and acid resistant.

It its heyday, asbestos became pervasive in the building industry. It appeared in fireproof roofing, siding, floor tiles, acoustical plaster, wall coverings, joint compounds, and insulation in boilers and heating systems. Soon, new textures and colors added to the charm of the otherwise bland asbestos sheets. Its flexibility lent itself easily for purposes such as making decorative ceilings and false wall panels.

Why Was Asbestos Roofing Used?

By the mid 1900’s, construction magazines and engineers strongly advocated the use of asbestos-reinforced cement on roofs to protect against incidents of fire. A mixture of asbestos and cement became a popular sealant for leaking roofs. This coating was also used in joints around chimneys, skylights, shingles, and rooftop nail holes. Its famed fire-resistant properties made asbestos coating a must-have in commercial kitchens, hotels, schools, and office buildings.

As recently as in the early 1990’s, the production and sale of asbestos cement slating roofs saw a 25% rise, the reason being that asbestos slates were cheaper than slate substitutes or natural slate. In 1995, an estimated 5,000 tons of asbestos was used in the building industry alone. Molded asbestos in synthetic roof tiles and corrugated roof panels weathered well because they were resistant to decay. Asbestos roofs were cost-efficient and seemingly indestructible.

What Danger Is Posed by Asbestos Roofing?

According to a survey, asbestos-enhanced roofing products account for more than 50% of asbestos consumption in the U.S. Fortunately, of all asbestos-reinforced products, fireproof asbestos roofing is considered the safest because they generally contain 15-20% asbestos, as opposed to 75-90% found in wall coverings and insulations. However, when damaged, drilled, or broken, the fireproof roofing begins to release carcinogenic fibers. Long-term exposure to these fibers can ultimately lead to asbestosis or mesothelioma.

So, there is an important question to consider while you are sitting at home, or in your office or even when your children are playing in the schoolroom – is the roof above your head really safe?