Where Asbestos Is Commonly Found in Older Louisiana Homes

Asbestos was valued for its heat resistance and durability, which is why it ended up in so many building materials. In older Baton Rouge homes, it can show up in places you might not expect.

Flooring

Vinyl and asphalt floor tiles, sheet vinyl, and the mastic adhesive beneath them are among the most common sources. We cover this in detail in our floor tile guide.

Ceilings

Popcorn and textured ceiling finishes, popular through the mid-1900s, frequently contain asbestos. The joint compound used on drywall seams can as well.

Insulation

Pipe and boiler insulation on older heating systems is a well-known source, particularly the white, chalky wrap found on older pipes.

Exterior and roofing

Cement-based siding and shingles, roofing felts, coatings, and sealants on older flat or low-slope roofs can all contain asbestos.

Other materials

Textured paints, patching compounds, cement board, and even some older adhesives round out the list.

The important caveat

Finding a material on this list does not mean it contains asbestos, and a material in good condition that you leave alone is generally not an active hazard. The concern is disturbance, during a renovation, a repair, or a demolition. If you are planning work that will disturb any of these materials, an inspection and testing tell you what you are actually dealing with.