It’s a “fibrous silicate mineral,” which means it’s made up of long and thin thread like crystals, each of which is composed of many microscopic “fibers” that can go floating into the air and often do. This is problematic because inhaling these floating fibes is known to cause respiratory diseases such as asbestosis and lung cancer.

Asbestos abatement and demolition may be necessary when renovating or tearing down a home. The presence of asbestos in a home can be confirmed through testing by a trained and licensed professional. If asbestos is found, it is important to follow proper procedures for handling and removing the material to prevent exposure to harmful fibers.