FAQs about ceiling tiles that might be free of asbestos.:

Q&A on how to recognize ceiling tiles by visual inspection to note clear evidence of non-asbestos materials such as fiberglass, and how to confirm that othe ceiling tiles or suspended ceiling panels are asbestos free by a simple lab test.

This article series assists building buyers, owners or inspectors who need to identify asbestos materials (or probable-asbestos) in buildings by simple visual inspection.

FAQs on How to Visually Recognize or Test for Ceiling Tiles that don't contain asbestos - or might

These questions and answers about ceiling tiles that do not contain asbestos were posted originally at ASBESTOS-FREE CEILING TILES - be sure to see that article and

also see ASBESTOS CEILING TILE IDENTIFICATION for a discussion of ceiling materials that DO contain asbestos.

[Click to enlarge any image]

On 2020-12-10 - by (mod) -

Brad, that looks like a wood fibre material, but for better guess at ceiling tile asbestos

see DO THESE CEILING TILES CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 Easy Steps to tell if CEILING TILES are likely to contain asbestos -

On 2020-12-10 by Brad

Was wondering if this is possibly asbestos. The house was built in 1955 and this in a garage as the ceiling panels.

There was an addition put on later on the has a similar but seems less quality material as it says in between studs. This is the sample on the 1955 part.

On 2020-12-10 - by (mod) -

Regrets, Jennifer but about your ceiling, I don't think anyone can say from just the photo. Regarding the flooring this early looks like asphalt- or vinyl- asbestos floor tile from the 50s or 60s

On 2020-12-10 by Jennifer S

I was wondering if these tiles were likely to contain asbestos. We started taking some down but then stopped. We believe the tile contains asbestos as well! Thank you so much.

On 2020-12-08 - by (mod) - asbestos in Hansonite SwanBoard ceiling tiles?

Victor

That's not a product with which I'm familiar but I'll do some research.

From your photo it certainly looks like a fiberglass or fiberglass composite product. Do you know its age or the age of the building?

Preliminary research on SwanBoard finds that the trademark for that product line has expired.

Research results for Swan Board, Swanboard, and Hansoite:

• SWANBOARD AB, 66203 Svanskog Sweden SE
  
  
• Contact Markforce Associates, 85 Strand , London UNITED KINGDOM WC2R 0DW
  Excerpt:
  
  On Tuesday, August 27, 1985, a United Kingdom trademark registration was filed for SWANBOARD by Swanboard AB 66203 Svanskog, Sweden SE. The United Kingdom IP office has given the trademark application number of UK00001249209. The current status of this trademark filing is Dead.
  
  The correspondent listed for SWANBOARD is Markforce Associates of Markforce Associates, 85 Strand, London, , UNITED KINGDOM WC2R 0DW The SWANBOARD trademark is filed in the category of Non-Metallic Building Material Products.
• Elof Hansson, Inc. also produced Hansonite Random Perforated ceiling tiles,
  
  Note: there was at least one Hansonite product, Hansonite fiber cement board, that is listed as a product containing asbestos.
  

On 2020-12-08 by Victor

Hansonite swan board 2x2 ceiling tiles made in Sweden, are these an asbestos risk? Thanks. [Photo above]

On 2020-11-30 - by (mod) -

Lee

Best bet: take a look at the four simple "does this ceiling tile contain asbestos?" steps at the top of this page - that's more complete than an off-the-cuff reply here.

Please let me know if any information you come across at InspectApedia.com is unclear or if you have other content suggestions or criticism.

THanks

On 2020-11-30 by Lee

Hello, any idea whether this tile is likely to contain asbestos? I found it under old loft boards that I pulled up, wasn't expecting it to be there so have disturbed it and it's in poor condition. No idea why it was there or where it came from. Any help is appreciated.

On 2020-11-25 - by (mod) -

I agree that that looks like a cellulose or wood or plant-based material. Be absolutely certain that it contains no asbestos you would, however, have a lab test performed. That might be justified if the possibility of us best it was me that you face a large clean up expense. Otherwise it's probably not

On 2020-11-24 by Aaron

I removed this tile a few months back from the ceiling. House is 1955. Unsure of installation. What’s done is done. I wore glasses and a surgical mask. Appears wood like in appearance. Any thoughts? Trying to figure out if I need to get it tested.

On 2020-11-04 - by (mod) -

It's possible, Mike; I can't identify the ceiling tile from photos alone; you'd either treat the ceiling as presumed to contain asbestos or have a sample tested.

If you decide to have it tested be sure to let me know what you find.

On 2020-11-04 by Mike

Hi I was wondering if these ceiling tiles contain asbestos it’s a white painted top with a cardboard like material on the back I couldn’t find anything to identify anything about them. I just know our house was built in 1954

On 2020-10-22 - by (mod) -

Looks like fiberglass ceiling panels with a thin plastic cosmetic skin or surface;

On 2020-10-22 by Mike

Hi, I am wondering if these tiles are asbestos. The are soft and appear to have a coating over them. The inside is a yellowish material. I am unsure of the year or Manufacturerer. Also, they are drop ceiling in a row home living room.

On 2020-01-22 - by (mod) - often "brown" cellulose-like ceiling tiles don't contain asbestos

Laura often "brown" cellulose-like ceiling tiles don't contain asbestos but forgive-me nobody can say for sure what an acoustic ceiling tile contains from just a photo -

However some useful questions to help make a reasonable guess are in the ARTICLE INDEX including

DO THESE CEILING TILES CONTAIN ASBESTOS?

Also see PINEX CEILING TILES - a New Zealand product.

On 2020-01-22 by Laura - is there asbestos in these New Zealand ceiling tiles from 1978?

Do these contain asbestos? The core is brown, and the surface is painted white. NZ home built in 1978

Do these look like they contain asbestos?

Am in NZ and the house was built 1978.

am assuming its a wood or cellulose based product as it is brown all they way through and painted white on the surface.

On 2020-01-08 - by (mod) - asbestos in sagging ceiling?

It's hard to say with no other information whether or not these ceiling tiles contain asbestos; some are a mere cellulose or wood product.

Click the live link above at

Continue reading at DO THESE CEILING TILES1978- CONTAIN ASBESTOS?

On 2020-01-07 by Renee

I have a sagging ceiling tile. Concerned regarding asbestos ive sent a pic. Let me know what your thoughts are.... rglock951@aol.com

On 2020-01-05 - by (mod) -

In North America the ceiling products were made or installed before 1986, treat the material as presumed to contain asbestos.

That's a quote from the article above on this page. Is your building is 3 years newer than the date it seems unlikely that the ceiling would have been in asbestos containing products. Only if an installer knowingly kept and used new "old product" ceiling tiles would that be plausible.

On 2020-01-05 by Dean Parker

Damaged ceiling tiles throughout leisure centre... built in 1989 and dont think been refurbished since...

On 2019-11-13 - by (mod) -

I can't say, Art - not a shred of information.

If you want a for-sure answer you need to know when the ceiling tile was made, country and city of production, or test a sample

ASBESTOS TESTING LAB LIST

On 2019-11-13 by Art

Is there asbestos in this ceiling tile

On 2019-09-15 by (mod) - Questions to Sort out: Does this Ceiling Tile Contain Asbestos/

Nathan

When we know absolutely nothing about a ceiling tile but someone's worried that it may contain asbestos, there are several questions that can be asked (and answered) that permit a reasonable guess ruling in or out the possibility that the ceiling product contains asbestos.

What you show in your photo looks like a "popcorn spray" ceiling coating.

Watch out: be sure to review CEILING PAINT TEXTURED / POPCORN ASBESTOS

If I'm mistaken and this is actually a ceiling tile installation then address these questions:

1. What is the AGE of the Ceiling Tile?

What is the age of the building? When were renovations done? Determine or guess at the building age, years when remodeling was done, year when the ceiling tiles were installed, consider also, in an older building that older layers could contain asbestos (or lead or other hazards)

In North America the ceiling products were made or installed before 1986, treat the material as presumed to contain asbestos.

To identify asbestos ceiling tiles

see ASBESTOS CEILING TILE IDENTIFICATION

If you don't know the brand name of your flooring, continue with steps 2-5 below.

2. What are the General Ceiling Tile Pattern, Size, Type match against pattern guides given in the indexes we just cited above

3. Look for a ceiling tile brand, pattern name, number, style

If accessible, look for stampings or markings on the back of the ceiling tiles or

Occasionally we can find extra ceiling tiles stored in an attic, basement, or garage. An earlier owner or perhaps the installer left these for future repairs.

If you have ceiling tile packaging, take a look at the packaging, box brand, label, floor tile style or pattern.

Often the manufacturer and product or serial number can identify ceiling tiles in exquisite detail.

If you can not see a flooring brand name or pattern for your ceiling tile material, as you usually won't, you should either

4. Lab test a ceiling tile sample for asbestos content: if you face a costly dusty messy demolition it may be appropriate to have a sample of the ceiling tile tested.

If you have time and about $50. U.S.D. you can have a ceiling tile sample tested for asbestos using one of the certified asbestos testing labs in

this ASBESTOS TESTING LAB LIST

Watch out: however: some ceiling materials are made in three or more layers - multiple tests might be needed.

Asbestos is safe and legal to remain in homes or public buildings as long as the asbestos materials are in good condition and the asbestos can not be released into the air.

Generally the safest and most-economical approach is to leave asbestos-suspect ceilings in place, covering it over. In that case you do not need to test a sample for asbestos.

Treat the ceiling as PACM - Presumed Asbestos Containing Material - that means avoid making a dusty mess with grinding, sawing, chopping, etc. - ceiling tiles shed virtually nothing if not disturbed

Encapsulate or cover over the material, leaving it in place: generally the safest and least-costly approach to most asbestos-containing materials

However IF you must demolish the ceiling AND you cannot remove it without creating a dusty mess, STOP and either treat the ceiling as presumed to contain asbestos or have a sample tested.

Our ARTICLE INDEX includes contact information for certified asbestos test labs in your country.

On 2019-09-15 by Nathan

Hi, I am looking at a property recently but found the ceiling like the picture shows which one of my friends indicated it may be asbestos. Would you like to help to check?

On 2019-08-29 by Anonymous: do these ceiling tiles contain asbestos?

About a year and a half ago my wife embarked on a home renovation project with a contractor we hired. To save money, my wife did a lot of the demolition herself. She was essentially re-finishing a finished attic space to make a master bedroom.

One of the first things she did was remove the ceiling tiles.

The contractor that we were working with said that the tiles we needed to worry about were drop ceiling tiles, in particular, and ones with a white/grey core. He said that our tiles had a brown core with wood fibers and was therefore cellulose.

So my wife ripped them out with all of the wood paneling and the carpet. I was fine thinking that they were cellulose, I could see the wood fibers that the tile was composed of. But a few days ago, I saw your site was saying that some cellulose tiles contained asbestos.

I am concerned that we've been living in a contaminated house for the last year and a half and have lost quite a bit of sleep.

Had I thought there was a chance there was asbestos in the tile, I would have had it tested, but everyone seemed so clear that it was cellulose and not harmful.

How concerned should I be that we've done irreparable damage to our health? The 'before" pictures are below. - Anonymous by private email

Moderator reply:

Thanks for the question and photos.

Regrettably the worry about this theoretical exposure to asbestos may itself be a greater health risk than the dust itself.

If you have no samples of material left and no photos of it we're left with so much speculation that I think there's not much to do here.

Cellulose is not an asbestos containing material.

Wood fibers (a form of cellulose of course) are also not an asbestos containing material.

Really? Help me make sure our InspectApedia.com information is clear and accurate by telling me where you read that cellulose is an asbestos worry and I'll be glad to review and research further.

We discuss cellulose and wood fiber products used both as insulation and in ceiling tiles at:

ASBESTOS-FREE CEILING TILES

CELLULOSE LOOSE FILL INSULATION

INSULATION IDENTIFICATION GUIDE

There's not much benefit in closing the barn door after the horse has leapt over "the wall" but a couple of thoughts:

1. discuss health worries with your doctor; for people at extra risk there may be some follow-up exam she'll recommend.

2. test representative building dust: you can confirm that there's not likely to be a remaining hazardous dust in the work area by collecting a sample of settled dust that represents the demolition phase of your project and having that examined for abnormal or high levels of hazardous particles.

See TEST KIT for DUST, MOLD, PARTICLES: INSTRUCTIONS

On 2019-06-21 by (mod) - brown fibrous ceiling tile probably a cellulose or wood-fiber product

Ceiling & flooring tiles produced in the U.S. up until about 1986 may contain asbestos

(By some reports additional if less-common asbestos ceiling materials such as sprays used in some areas up to even the early 1990's contained asbestos).

Your photo of a ceiling tile Looks like brown, fibrous cellulose-type material. (Wood isn't asbestos).

In any event if you didn't make a dusty mess the potential dust hazard's would typically be low.

You can clean up with damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming to be extra safe.

Or have a sample tested.

On 2019-06-21 by Anonymous

I was unaware ceiling tiles had asbestos and I removed several of these before finding this website. The tiles were installed in 1981- that is the only information I can find.

There is no identification stamp on the back but I have attached a picture. Should I be concerned??

On 2019-06-19 by (mod) -

IMAGES NOT APPEARING: - apologies to Les, Chad and other readers. Recent errors in Comments Box implementation caused your images to be lost. Please re-post and the images will appear here as soon as our moderator sees them in your posting.

Thanks. Daniel F.

On 2019-06-11 by (mod) - ceiling tile fragment material guess: cellulose

The tiny scrap of material [shown below] in a hand looks to me like a cellulose product.

But generally a good approach is to find the age of the ceiling tile and depending on the country where you live you can immediately rule in or out the possibility that it could contain asbestos.

If you don't know the age you can sometimes do a product search based on the product name and control number and you can find when it was manufactured.

On 2019-06-10 by lesmelrob83014

On 2019-04-23 by Chad

Wondering if yhis ceiling tile contains asbestos

On 2019-03-11 by (mod) -

I don't know how to translate the phrase ambient asbestos content.

Ambient in general means related to surrounding conditions such as ambient light meaning the light in a particular area or ambient temperature the temperature in a particular area at the time that an observation is made. Doesn't refer to the interior content or chemistry of a substance.

modern ceiling tiles would not be expected to contain asbestos.

On 2019-03-10 by Anonymous

What's the ambeient amount of abestos allowed in a ceiling tile

On 2019-01-04 by (mod) -

RJ

It looks like a cellulose material, but naturally one can't substitute a photo for a material test by an asbestos test lab.

On 2019-01-04 by RJ

Does this look like an Asbestos Ceiling tile?

On 2018-12-08 by Los

Here’s the other picture sorry

On 2018-11-17 by (mod) -

Chris that looks to me like fiberglass with a white acoustic facing and unknown backer.

On 2018-11-17 by Chris

Needing help identifying these celing tiles. Fiberglass? - IMAGE LOST by Comments Box, sorry, please re-post

On 2018-10-08 by (mod) -

OPINION

If it's easy enough to just remove and bag and trash the stained tile intact, that's what I'd do.

On 2018-10-08 by Chris

Wonder if you think we should get this tile tested? Home built in 1954. - IMAGE LOST by Comments Box, sorry, please re-post

On 2018-10-08 by (mod) - test or toss out ceiling tiles?

OPINION

If it's easy enough to just remove and bag and trash the stained tile intact, that's what I'd do.

If you face a costly demolition and cleanup you should have a sample of your ceiling tiles tested.

On 2018-10-08 by Chris

Wonder if you think we should get this tile tested? Home built in 1954.

On 2018-09-22 by (mod) - Durolite Tileboard by the Insulite Division of Minnesota and Ontario Paper Company (MANDO) contains asbestos?

Neal take a look at this article on asbestos in Insulite products

SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT

that's the best data I've found

On 2018-09-22 by Neal

Does anyone know if a 12” x 12” ceiling tile called “Durolite Tileboard” made by the Insulite Division of Minnesota and Ontario Paper Company (MANDO) contains asbestos?

On 2018-08-12 by (mod) - test this ceiling tile for asbestos?

Sorry, no. You need to have some idea of date, such as building age, age of renovations or remodeling.

I will guess that from the general appearance of the ceiling tile edges it looks like a wood or cellulose-based product.

Have a sample tested.

On 2018-08-12 20:06:01.829498 by G man

Any info on possible asbestos?
Stapled in place
12 in square
No Markings
Assuming Armstrong

On 2018-07-15 by Christine

Thank you for your response.

On 2018-07-14 by (mod) -

Some ceiling tiles like yours contain asbestos. Regrettably, Christine, cannot say for sure whether one of these contains that material without a lab test.

However a small drill penetrating a ceiling tile, say to screw in a fastener to install a light, is not likely to release a detectable amount of airborne dust and debris of any sort.

Damp wipe up or HEPA vacuum as needed to clean up any debris that wasn't caught on a dropcloth, paper, or other catchment.

On 2018-07-14 by Christine

I'm not sure if it's possible to help with this as we don't know the brand. The house is from 1920. We had electricians drill into the ceiling, and only after did we think about an asbestos risk. We have two young children sleeping in the rooms where they drilled, and I'm not sure if that one-time disruption to the ceiling would cause a risk. The tiles are 12x12.

On 2018-07-06 by (mod) - how to test a ceiling tile for asbestos content

HL or others needing asbestos tests, see

see ASBESTOS TESTING LAB LIST at https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos_Test_Lab_Lists.php

InspectApedia.com does NOT offer asbestos testing nor do we sell any product nor service - thus to protect reader confidence in our articles and content.

On 2018-07-06 by hlaird3

Rose,
Did you have tiles tested? I have the same tiles, the house was built in 1963.
Thanks

On 2018-06-26 8 by (mod) -

If you can't get a guess at ceiling age and the building was put up before 1986 you'd either assume the tiles can contain asbestos or have a sample tested.

On 2018-06-25 by Rose

Hi - I'm under contract for a house and was hoping to get more information on whether I should get this ceiling tile tested for asbestos. We plan on removing the ceiling so would need to budget accordingly. I have no information on the date of installation or brand of tile, but it has an unusual pattern that I'm hoping someone will recognize. Any ideas?

On 2018-06-19 by (mod) -

Testing a representative sample of ceiling tile is pretty trivial in cost and effort and in the absence of a significant existing dusty mess, doesn't need to be handled in an alarmist way.

I understand you want to handle this with sensitivity. There is also an OSHA hotline you can perhaps call for advice, people who will respect your privacy.

I will think about this further but I don't see any option to either ignoring the question and taking your chances or addressing the question by making an effort to find out some useful facts.

On 2018-06-18 by DT

That's tough for me. I work here so have no clue when this office was remodeled nor does anyone else. However, the tiles have a 2 in 1 design, meaning there's two tiles with a white border between.

It should be a new design in theory? I'd hate to bring Hazmat guys here to test...my boss might think I'm nuts.

On 2018-06-18 by (mod) - recent ceiling tiles not likely to contain asbestos but if unkown treat as PACM

DT

To answer the asbestos question for unknown ceiling tiles we have these options:

1. find evidence that the ceiling tiles were installed after the mid 1980's (in the U.S.) - and assume those are not going to contain asbestos

2. find a manufacturer's id, product number, etc. on the tile back and ask the manufacturer or again establish the date

3. have a sample tested https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos_Test_Lab_Lists.php

4. treat the ceiling as PACM - presumed to contain asbestos

On 2018-06-18 by DT

I work in an older building but these appear to be newer ceiling tile...your thoughts? They keep messing with the vents so I have ceiling tile droppings in my office.

Thank you.

On 2018-05-30 by (mod) - ceiling tiles shedding debris

XT

A tiny chip (by my lexicon less than a square inch) of ceiling panel falling on your head would not itself produce a measurable asbestos hazard (if the ceiling panels contain that material) nor any other injury unless debris happened to get directly in your eye.

I'm not sure how the floor informs us about the ceiling unless you thought they were the same age. The ceiling, from your photo, is apparently much newer.

On 2018-05-30 by XT

At my school, a tiny chip fell on my head and on my skin.

The floor was apparently made in the 1950's although I am not sure if it is accurate. Either way I want to know whether it could hurt me. I think that the ceiling is consistent throughout the rooms and wings.

But I will double-check check tommorow and I can't exactly take off the panel so images of the panel is as far I can give.

On 2018-05-26 by (mod) -

Not at all likely, Candace. By 1998 no U.S. manufacturer would be expected to be using asbestos in ceiling tiles.

On 2018-05-26 by Candace

I have USG ceiling tiles copyright date if 1998, and was wondering if they contain asbestos

On 2018-04-24 by (mod) -

Mara,

From the color and texture alone this looks like a cellulose material (wood) but yes, it could contain asbestos too, depending on the manufacturer and age. It'd be useful for you also to post an image of the ceiling tile pattern.

On 2018-04-24 by Mara

Need some input if these tiles might be suspect for asbestos? They are attached by wood strips and House was built in 1978. Any input is appreciated,thanks.

On 2018-04-19 by Mike

Can you tell me if a ceiling tile from Armstrong stamped with 1997 on the back could contain asbestos?

On 2018-04-03 by (mod) - re: Herschel's ceiling tiles

When readers post photos they should see a note that the photos and comment await moderator approval - to protect our site and our readers from both malware and from inappropriate comment.

The "blobs" in your photos look like remains of ceiling tiles that were glued and then later pulled off of the ceiling.

I also see what looks like remains of cellulose insulation on the metal duct.

I cannot say and no one can say by the image alone that these contain asbestos - or not. A lab test of the material would be required.

IF you can establish that the materials that are in question were installed after the mid 1980's it is very unlikely that asbestos was used

. If not, the your options are to treat the material as presumed to contain asbestos or to have a sample tested.

(Search InspectApedia.com for ASBESTOS TEST LABS). or find the live link at the end of this article.

On 2018-04-03 by hdvinci

Sorry to post again but I was not sure if my last post(s) with pics went in. I've attached this time one pic that combines the four shots of our ceiling with the weird areas I think might be asbestos.

To reiterate, we did view unit on video and did not see it in person before signing lease. The building is old enough to contain asbestos roof tiles but I have no idea if the attached photos are indeed asbestos.

At worst, they are and at best the company did a really poor patch job on something. I'm dubious that these areas were left uncovered and assume someone said "don't touch these" at some point in project -- and for a reason.

Thanks again for ANY clarification on this. We're faced with some tough decisions that need to be made right away and I was looking for a bit of guidance in a stressful time. Sincerely, Hershcel

On 2018-04-03 by Herschel

Thanks for the help. I will send four pictures via the comments. The building was probably built in 1930s or 1950s. The management is offering to let us out of the lease and/or get it tested to see what it is and then Fiber Lock spray/paint it. The fact they left anything like this exposed at all makes me very dubious. Why would they offer to let us out of the lease if they did not have suspicions?

Someone at some point left this stuff alone so that person must have assumed it could possibly contain asbestos. I am not sure if folks can tell by the pics I send, but I appreciate any feedback.

We're exhausted and broke and really don't feel like moving only 48 hours after getting into the place. Yes, we viewed unit with video tour and signed lease before seeing in person. The video did not show HVAC ceiling.

If I had seen it in person I would have walked away, which is what I told them and that's when they offered to refund the rent and let us out of the lease. Thanks again very much, Hershcel

On 2018-04-03 by (mod) -

Herschel,

for security reasons we are cautious about accessing unknown links.

It might help us comment if you could use the picture frame icon next to the Comment button to post photos of your "glue plugs" as I don't know what you mean by that description.

Am I correct that you rented an apartment without actually seeing it other than by video?

Herschel said:
We just moved into a new rehabbed apt. in an old building in Covington, KY.

The developer is respected. We viewed the unit on video from another state before renting and signed lease. After we got in this week, I noticed weird blotches on ceiling of the HVAC/laundry cupboard that resembled asbestos "glue plugs" from old ceiling tiles. I asked and they said it was impossible it was asbestos.

The company passed a "Phase I" local environmental inspection for such hazards, but I have no idea if that was for the building in general or for our specific unit.

They also offered to seal suspect areas with Fiber Lock spray and then paint them. I'm confused why they would make such an offer if the suspected areas are, by their own words, not asbestos.

I have no idea if this is asbestos or just a really poor modern patch job of one-by-one spline ceiling tiles. It seems odd they were left exposed.

1. What is our recourse?

2. What are best steps to resolve this in a mutually satisfying way?

3. If it is asbestos or even suspected asbestos, did they have a duty to divulge? Can we break the lease if so and it is asbestos? Here is link with pictures. Thanks very much -- my wife is worried!

On 2018-03-24 by (mod) -

Matt

If your home is in the U.S. that acoustic-tiled ceiling is probably an installation between 1950 and 1970. Some but not all such ceilings include asbestos. It'd be prudent to treat the ceiling as presumed to contain asbestos, avoid making a dusty mess, and have a sample tested if demolition and dust are unavoidable.

Asbestos is safe left in place when it is intact, un-damaged, and not subject to disturbance. Painting it, as this ceiling has been painted, adds some protection.

On 2018-03-24 by Matt

My house was built in 1879 and not sure if the ceiling tile is asbestos

On 2018-02-24 by (mod) -

Well that's good news and good to get clarified. As you probably understand fiberglass is not an asbestos containing product.

On 2018-02-24 by Kat - confirming fiberglass ceiling panel - not asbestos

Actually it is, it's Owen Corning Fiberglass.

I actually took one down. It's stamped "OFC" and "23" on back. Do you know what that means, or if this is a know asbestos material? Thanks again.

On 2018-02-23 by (mod) -

Sorry, Kat, butI can't tell from your photos if that's an asbestos containing material though to me it sure looks as if you're showing a fiberglass (not asbestos) suspended ceiling tile.

You need to send a sample to a lab that. However Don't Panic or freak out. Just don't make a mega Dusty mess. If you need to clean up use a HEPA rated vacuum cleaner or damp wiping.

On 2018-02-23 by Kat

I wanted to see what was behind the dropped ceiling in this old house I recently purchased, and of course now that I've poked and disturbed a dozen tiles throughout the place, it suddenly occurred to me that they could contain asbestos and I'm totally freaking out.

Does this tile appear, in your opinion, to be asbestos? Close up, the color is a dark yellowish gold, fiberglass like. I'm afraid to take one down to even look at the back or to take a sample!

On 2018-02-20 02:39:51.065627 by (mod) -

Anne:

Do not panic - it's not a radioactive material = doesn't emit harmful particles.

Even if your ceiling tiles contain asbestos, if the material is not being shredded, demolished, etc. then there's not likely to be a measurable hazard.

On 2018-02-19 21:29:25.661448 by Anne Roberts

I’m in the middle of removing old acoustical tiles and am horrified to think they may have asbestos. I have attached a photo. Please help me, I’m scared.

Thank you,

On 2018-01-31 by (mod) - white blocks not asbestos - photo below

good news, we'll keep your photo and test results In this article series as that will help other readers.

On 2018-01-30 by Lauren

Had it tested - Not asbestos! mostly plaster and a wood based material.

On 2018-01-28 by Lauren

We had a old ceiling in our 1950s house replaced, but instead of going over the ceiling with drywall, the contractor removed the tiles! We have a baby in the house, so I am quite worried, especially since finding some of the debris from the old tiles in our yard.

I was comforted somewhat by finding some wood-based looking pieces, but there were also big chunks of another white material.

On 2018-01-18 by (mod) -

Great news, Glenda. Still, even without an asbestos hazard it's always smart to avoid creating a dusty mess from building materials indoors. Intact, un-damaged, left alone, ceiling tiles won't be hazardous.

Readers who want to attach photos for comment or to help out others can add photos to comments by using the small picture frame icon just to the right of the Comment button.

On 2018-01-18 by Glenda

I had them tested. They are cellulose and do not contain asbestos.

On 2017-10-21 by (mod) -

Wayne

Highly unlikely in the U.S. in 1990.

On 2017-10-20 by wayne watkins

I purchased some ceiling tiles from a K-Mart store that was tore down. Armstrong tiles, 2x4. Store was built around 1990. Would these contain asbestos?

On 2017-09-01 by (mod) - how to post photos and questions

Yes using the page bottom CONTACT link or by using the ADD IMAGE button at the page bottom Comments Box.

On 2017-08-31 by Glenda

How Can I send a photo of ceiling tiles in a 1950 built home?

Can I send a photo of ceiling tiles in a 1950 built home?

On 2017-07-31 by (mod) - if you can remove tiles without creating a dusty mess

Renee, if you can remove tiles without creating a dusty mess the risks are pretty low. If you face a dusty demolition project and the ceiling tiles were installed before the early 1980's (in the U.S.) you might want to have a sample tested for asbestos.

Use the on-page search box at the top or bottom of this page to find our article on ASBESTOS TEST LABS to find a lab near you. The cost is usually <$50.u.s>

On 2017-07-31 by Renee

I have ceiling tile with a code /05 CNDSAFE on back of tile..
And then there's these other ones mixed in that look different ABF1C3CD-2BC0-4888-BB85-DE297333CF16.JPG
I'm afraid to move any more tiles without knowing if they're safe

On 2017-07-07 by Rhett

Hi,
I'm moving into a house built in the 1920s. A lot of the interior has the rectangulor ceiling panels that I am afraid may contain asbestos. Were asbestos materials being used around that time?

On 2017-07-01 by Jc

Hello, I have an office that I want to remodel it, but there is 12x12 white ceiling tiles with 2 kindas holes. They owner that did the office was 1990-1992 but I want to be sure, it was correct and no asbestos. They tiles look like 4 tiles together , but, I really didn't remove it off ... just in case. Can someone look at it and if it is asbestos or asbestos free! Thank you very much. ( hmm how do I link my pictures??)

On 2017-05-08 by (mod) -

I'm doubtful you can tell reliably from just a visual inspection unless you find a brand and product number on the ceiling tiles or see that the material is obviously not a candidate for asbestos - e.g. fiberglass. You'd need to have a sample tested. Use the search box to find ASBESTOS TEST LABS if you want to do that. Simplest is to assume you'll leave the material alone, covering it over with drywall if appropriate.

On 2017-05-07 by Kevin

Looking to buy a 1961 house in southern ontario canada. House has older ceiling tiles. How would i be able to tell from visual inspection whether they might bave asbestos? What listing of canadian manufacturers were there in 1961 in canada?

On 2017-04-13 by (mod) -

Todd you can send photos by using our email found at the page top or bottom CONTACT link. But I'm doubtful that a photo alone will tell us whether or not the ceiling you describe contains asbestos. If you face a need to make a dusty demolition mess (as opposed to simply covering over the ceiling with drywall), or if you face other costly demolition involving the material I suggest having a sample tested.

If you use the search box just above to find ASBESTOS TEST LAB LIST you'll see where to find a certified testing laboratory. The cost is usually under $50. U.S. and is similar in other countries.

On 2017-04-13 by Todd

Home built 1955. Ceiling tiles are white with gold flakes, glittery looking. 12 x 12. Stapled to ferring strips. I have a picture but cannot figure out how to post here. Have you heard of these being asbestos?

On 2017-02-14 by (mod) -

You are welcome to use the page top or bottom CONTACT link to send us photos for posting your comment.

On 2017-02-14 by Karen

Are these white staggered ceiling tiles form the mid to late 70's asbestos dark sand colored thick almost an inch thick. Soft like compressed cardboard? How can I post a pic here?

On 2017-01-02 by (mod) - Unless you see a brand and product number we're not going to know for sure if the ceiling contains abestos or not,

Becky

YOu can use the page top or bottom CONTACT link to send us photos for comment - I'll be glad to take a look.

Unless you see a brand and product number we're not going to know for sure if the ceiling contains abestos or not, but if the materials were installed before the mid to late 1980's, most likely my advice won't change:

either treat the material as presumed to contain asbestos, or if the job requires high cost or making a dusty mess, then first search InspectApedia.com for ASBESTOS TEST LAB and spring the $40-50 to have a sample tested.

On 2017-01-02 by Becky

Hi, we have a home purchased in 1962. This drop ceiling is located in the lower level walk out. We recently had a roof leak and the chimney from above leaked water down into this drop wiling in this one spot, as shown. Do these tiles appear to have asbestos or is it apparent at all from the photo? (Trying to figure out how to post photo -- can anyone advise?) We were going to replace the entire drop ceiling, but I'm now hesitant.

On 2016-03-31 by (mod) -

Edwin, to allow for space, links, and your photo of the suspended ceiling that may contain asbestos, I have moved your question and our reply into the article above. Keep me posted.

On 2016-03-31 by Edwin

Hi I just moved into a apartment in CA.. My lease did say that the building may have asbestos in it and it said not to mess with the ceiling tiles at all! My father says I have nothing to worry about but I'm still uneasy about the whole thing. Can you tell me if these tiles have asbestos in it? Or appear to?

On 2015-08-01 by (mod) -

If you refer to "asbestos free ceiling tiles" discussed above, no.

On 2015-07-31 by Paul

Are these tiles asbestos?

On 2015-03-2 by (mod) - Is 10% asbestos in 'ceiling'' govrened under FDA regulations?

Es

yes

In the ARTICLE INDEX found among the Continue Reading links at the end of this article please see

ASBESTOS MATERIAL REGULATIONS

ASBESTOS MATERIAL REGULATIONS, OSHA

On 2015-03-23 by Eshucation

Is 10% asbestos in 'ceiling'' govrened under FDA regulations?

On 2014-10-14 by Steve Parker

I just purchased an older ranch home built in 1960. The basement has ceiling tiles that I would like to remove. they are 12" x 24" x 9/16" thick.
I have pictures that I would like to share so that you might be able to give me some insight as to their likelihood of containing asbestos.
The tiles only identifying marks are the letters "FRF".
I also have vinyl sheet goods that I would like to take out. It has a masonite backing and when I pull the vinyl up, it is glued to the masonite board and it is separating the sheet stock, revealing a white clothlike backing.
Thank you for your assistance.
Steve

PS, great website.

...

Continue reading  at ASBESTOS-FREE CEILING TILES - topic home, or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX.

Or see these

Recommended Articles

• ASBESTOS CEILING TILE IDENTIFICATION - 5 Easy Steps to tell if CEILING TILES are likely to contain asbestos
• ASBESTOS TESTING LAB LIST - certified asbestos testing labs
• ASBESTOS-FREE CEILING TILES
• ASBESTOS-SUSPECT CEILING COVEROVER
• CELOTEX ASBESTOS PRODUCTS
• CEILING TILE MATERIALS
• TEST KIT for DUST, MOLD, PARTICLES: INSTRUCTIONS

Suggested citation for this web page

ASBESTOS FREE CEILING TILE FAQs at InspectApedia.com - online encyclopedia of building & environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, & problem prevention advice.

Or see this

INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES: ARTICLE INDEX to ASBESTOS HAZARDS

Or use the SEARCH BOX found below to Ask a Question or Search InspectApedia

Ask a Question or Search InspectApedia

Try the search box just below, or if you prefer, post a question or comment in the Comments box below and we will respond promptly.

Note: appearance of your Comment below may be delayed: if your comment contains an image, photograph, web link, or text that looks to the software as if it might be a web link, your posting will appear after it has been approved by a moderator. Apologies for the delay.

Only one image can be added per comment but you can post as many comments, and therefore images, as you like.
You will not receive a notification when a response to your question has been posted.
Please bookmark this page to make it easy for you to check back for our response.
Our Comment Box is provided by Countable Web Productions countable.ca

Citations & References

In addition to any citations in the article above, a full list is available on request.

---

ADVERTISEMENT

---