Asbestos Testing in Older Homes – What Should You Expect?

If you own or are purchasing a home built before the 1980s, there’s a chance it contains asbestos. This naturally occurring mineral was once a popular building material due to its heat resistance and durability. However, we now know that asbestos testing can cause serious health issues when disturbed and inhaled, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
So, what should you expect when testing your older home for asbestos? Let’s break it down.
Why Asbestos Testing Matters
Asbestos was commonly used in insulation, floor tiles, roofing shingles, and pipe wrapping until the late 1970s. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 30 million homes in the United States may still contain asbestos materials. The danger arises when these materials deteriorate or are disturbed during renovations, releasing toxic fibers into the air.
Testing is the only way to confirm whether asbestos is present in your home. Visual inspection alone isn’t enough, as asbestos fibers are microscopic and often mixed with other materials.
Where Is Asbestos Commonly Found?
Before testing begins, it helps to know where asbestos typically hides in older homes:
• Insulation: Around pipes, ducts, and attics
• Floor tiles: Vinyl and linoleum flooring installed before 1980
• Ceiling tiles: Especially textured or “popcorn” ceilings
• Roofing materials: Shingles and felt
• Siding: Cement-based exterior panels
• Pipe cement: Used to seal pipe joints
If your home was built between 1930 and 1980, these areas should be your primary concern.
The Asbestos Testing Process
Step 1: Hire a Certified Professional
Never attempt to collect asbestos samples yourself. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release harmful fibers. Instead, hire a licensed asbestos inspector who follows EPA guidelines. These professionals have the training and equipment to safely collect samples.
Step 2: Sample Collection
The inspector will carefully collect small samples from suspected materials throughout your home. They’ll seal each sample in an airtight container and label it for lab analysis. The process typically takes a few hours, depending on your home’s size.
Step 3: Laboratory Analysis
Samples are sent to an accredited laboratory where technicians use polarized light microscopy (PLM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to identify asbestos fibers. Results usually come back within one to two weeks.
Step 4: Review the Results
Your inspector will provide a detailed report outlining which materials contain asbestos and their condition. Materials in good condition may not require immediate action, but damaged or deteriorating asbestos should be addressed promptly.
What Happens If Asbestos Is Found?
If testing confirms asbestos in your home, don’t panic. You have three main options:
1. Leave it alone: Undisturbed asbestos in good condition poses minimal risk.
2. Encapsulation: Sealing asbestos materials to prevent fiber release.
3. Professional removal: Hiring certified abatement contractors to safely remove and dispose of asbestos.
The EPA recommends removal only when materials are damaged or you’re planning major renovations.

How much does asbestos testing cost?
Testing typically costs between $200 and $800, depending on your home’s size and the number of samples collected.
Can I live in my home during testing?
Yes, the testing process is non-invasive and safe for occupants.
Is asbestos testing required by law?
While not always legally required, many states mandate asbestos inspections before selling or renovating homes built before 1980.
Protecting Your Family’s Health
Asbestos testing provides peace of mind and helps you make informed decisions about your home’s safety. If you suspect your older home contains asbestos, schedule a professional inspection today. Early detection and proper handling can prevent serious health risks down the road.