AsbestosTrouble.com is a community-based non-affiliated site devoted to answering basic questions about Asbestos. We do not sell any products. Please use the research we've gathered here with our hopes that if you've encountered Asbestos Trouble, this site will help you attack it.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a name for a set of naturally-occurring silicate mineral fibers. As early as the 1930's, Asbestos was mined and used for or added to building materials to reinforce them, provide insulation and fire resistance. More recently, it has been discovered that prolonged exposure to airborne asbestos particles causes serious illness. It has been regulated by the EPA and builders have curbed their use of asbestos, particularly in dangerous situations, and all asbestos products sold today must be clearly marked.

However, the new regulations are a fairly recent phenomenon. Particularly in buildings built before 1970, asbestos was used fairly extensively in everything from flooring to pipe insulation. Thanks to its inexpensive durability, insulation properties, and fire resistance, Asbestos has been used in more then 3,600 commercial building products, according to a 1990 EPA study. This site simplifies matters for you: we cover asbestos health problems, where to look for asbestos, how to identify it, and legal options for asbestos exposure victims.

Is all asbestos dangerous?

No. In fact, when asbestos is in good condition, it's not an immediate risk (but should be regularly monitored). Asbestos particles are dangerous: when Asbestos becomes "friable" (meaning that it can be easily broken apart by hand) then the microscopic particles become airborne and enter the lungs. Because of their size and shape, the particles remain airborne for a long time and are easily ingested into the lungs or stomach. Therefore, older, fraying asbestos or damaged asbestos is particularly dangerous.

What's on this site?

Aside from the Asbestos basics, you can also find:

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©2004 AsbestosTrouble.com. AsbestosTrouble.com is not affiliated with any of the entities listed. AsbestosTrouble.com is not accredited to provide any legal or medical advice. Therefore, all contents herein are solely intended for educational purposes and not intended to provide legal or medical advice. Should you need legal or medical advice, consult a lawyer or physician. Questions, comments, concerns? Please email us.