While most products made today do not contain asbestos, a number of building products made through the 1970s did contain asbestos. If you think you may have any of these products in your home, you may want to consider asbestos testing.

Common products that may contain asbestos and are known to release asbestos fibers include:

• Steam pipes, boilers, furnace ducts
• Some floor tiles, vinyl sheet flooring, and adhesives used for floor tiles
• Cement sheet, millboard, and paper used as insulation
• Door gaskets in furnaces and stoves
• Soundproofing or decorative material sprayed on walls and ceilings
• Patching and joint compounds and textured paints
• Asbestos cement roofing, shingles, and siding
• Artificial ashes and embers used in gas fireplaces
• Fireproof gloves, stove-top pads, and ironing board covers
• Brake pads and linings, clutch facings, and gaskets for automobiles

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that you leave asbestos-containing materials alone if they are in good condition. However, you may want to consider hiring someone trained to test asbestos come check any materials in your home that have signs of wear or damage such as tears, abrasions, or water damage.

A qualified asbestos testing professional can perform analysis on any suspicious materials in your home. They also know how to take samples without disturbing the asbestos and releasing fibers into the air. After completing the asbestos test, these professionals may explain what action, if any, should be taken and may be able to suggest qualified repairmen.

You can contact your state or local health department or the regional offices of EPA to find out more about asbestos testing and to find out how to locate a company that is trained to remove or contain these dangerous fibers.