Q&A on the level of asbestos content of fiberboard sheathing products.
This article series discusses potential asbestos hazards for fiberboard panels, sheathing, insulating board & ceiling coverings or tiles.
InspectAPedia tolerates no conflicts of interest. We have no relationship with advertisers, products, or services discussed at this website.
- Daniel Friedman, Publisher/Editor/Author - See WHO ARE WE?
These questions & answers about the asbestos content of fiberboard sheathing products such as Beaverboard, Celotex, Gold Bond, Homasote, Insulite, Nu_Wood, were posted originally
at SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT - be sure to review the information given there.
This 3mm thick woody soft board is in our home in Switzerland; I'm worried sick that this is asbestos.
Hi, I am so glad I found this website. I am an expat currently living in Switzerland. We recently bought a house built in the 1950s. The main structure of the house is built out of cinder blocks. In two rooms there is some sort of wall covering that is painted over, and seems designed to be painted over.
It is mounted on the inside of the the east facing exterior walls of two bedrooms.
It is slightly squishy to the touch and 3 mm thick. I used a dull utility knife to cut off some piece to inspect for damp and mold
I am worried it is some type of asbestos. - On 2022-12-03 by Laura -
Reply by InspectApedia (Editor)
@Laura,
Usually brown fibrous material like that in your photo is plant based,
but please do read SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT where we discuss the question of asbestos in fiberboard products, and let me know what you think.
Below is a closer view of your photo.
How was insulating fiberboard panels applied to ceilings in the 50s and 60s? and did they ever contain any backings with asbestos? - On 2022-01-07 by barbara smith
This Q&A were posted originally at FIBERBOARD SHEATHING
Reply by Inspectapedia Com Moderator
@barbara smith,
Fiberboard was nailed to the studs on walls or the ceiling joists on ceilings.
Usually the joint between individual fiberboard panels was covered by a wooden strip.
I'm not sure what do you have in mind by asbestos backing but in general I'm not aware of such a product.
Followup by barbara smith - asbestos in fiberboard ceiling in mobile home?
@Inspectapedia Com Moderator, ok i have contacted a few asbestos inspectors about my mobile home ceiling with fiberboard and here is the response.
not in the fiberboard itself but if the fiberboard has any glue "mastic" ? some said if it has a backing on the fiberboard? and some said its been found in the paint of the fiberboard.
So my question since work has already been done and ceiling repaired but for future repairs is
1. would a large mobile home panel from the 60s have any glue when it was installed since it was not small tiles?
2. would it have any kind of asbestos backing as they are referring to in the fiberboard panels?
3. the paint on mine is a smoothe surface flat ceiling mobile home and not popcorn or any texture designs that i can see unless the paint through the years would have covered up a texture design as im not the first owner.so would asbestos be in regular paint or textured and popcorn only?
sorry for the confusion but this is the responses im getting as its not in the fiberboard but the catch is these other areas
Reply by Inspectapedia Com Moderator
@barbara smith,
Thanks for that added detail. What you were told is consistent with our information, as you'll see in the article SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT
It would be quite unusual for fiberboard ceiling or wall coverings to be glued-up with a mastic adhesive, but yes some of those adhesives contained asbestos - not in a friable form unless the mastic is being pulverized during remodeling or demolition.
Those details are at
ASBESTOS-CONTAINING ADHESIVES [web article]
About "asbestos paint" - in residential application the place you'd be most concerned about finding asbestos in paints would be in some older textured paints and in popcorn ceiling paint.It is possible but again uncommon to find those applied to wood fiberboard ceilings. (Is your fiberboard ceiling painted at all?).
The factory-applied thin white coating found on fiberboard ceiling and wall panels would not be an asbestos product.
See those details at
CEILING PAINT TEXTURED / POPCORN ASBESTOS [web article]
About an "asbestos-backing" on fiberboard ceiling or wall panels that's not a COMMON product for which we have found reports of use in residential construction. If you know of such a product that would be important information to share and would help our research.
There are research articles describing the use of asbestos in acoustic materials (in fibrous form it had good acoustic properties) and in some special coatings (not specific to fiberboard but perhaps confusing to some people) as we cite in the references section of this page.
- Sihabut, T., and N. Laemsak, SOUND ABSORPTION EFFICIENCY OF FIBERBOARD MADE FROM OIL PALM FROND [PDF] In FORTROP II International Conference, Bangkok, Thailand, vol. 185. 2008.
Excerpt:
In the past, asbestos was used as an acoustic material because of good sound absorption, fire retardant and low heat transfer characteristics. However, this material potentially causes adverse health effects to human, including lung cancer and mesothelioma (Nordmann, 1935; Wagner, 1960; Newhouse and Thompson, 1965; Ribak et al., 1988) and has been banned in many countries.
Note that this article does NOT cite the use of asbestos ON fiberboard itself.Another example is in
- DEVELOPMENT OF AN IMPROVED SYSTEM OF WOOD-FRAME HOUSE CONSTRUCTION [PDF], (1965) U.S. FPL
Again this does NOT cite use of asbestos backing on fiberboard.
Excerpt from roof covering products discussion:
Two planks were formed from one board. The exposed face and edge surfaces of the plank were covered with an asbestos-backed polyvinyl fluoride film providing a prefinished, long-lived face.
Gross, Daniel, and Joseph J. Loftus. FLAME SPREAD PROPERTIES OF BUILDING FINISH MATERIALS ASTM Bulletin 230 (1958): 56-59.
Excerpts:
… The test specimen, measuring 6 by 18 in., was placed in a metal holder and backed up with
… in degrees Fahrenheit over that observed with an asbestos-cement board specimen, and is
… obtained with these finish materials on a fiberboard base than on the other base materials. …- Robertson, A., BUILDING, VARIOUS WOOD-BASE. SURFACE FLAMMABILITY OF VARIOUS WOOD-BASE BUILDING MATERIALS [PDF]
Compares flame spread to asbestos millboard - NOT an asbestos coating on wood-based fiberboard.
and finally
- Radnofsky, M. I. OTHER NASA-DEVELOPED MATERIALS & SOME INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS (1971). [PDF]
Excerpt:
Mineral pigments in a wide variety of colors can be formulated into fluorocarbon-based paints. Panels fashioned of elastomer-backed nonflammable paper, to which decorative; patterns have been applied, have been manufactured.
The inclusion of asbestos in the backing provides insulating properties. Such a lightweight, fireproof sandwich affords much flexibility in decorative panel design. Elastomeric coatings can be applied to polyurethane foams and to cellulosic materials such as paper, wood, and sponge, thereby effectively fireproofing the materials for structural and insulative applications.
...
An asbestos foam has been developed by the Rex Asbestos Works of Germany. This material is marketed in batting and sheets, is inexpensive, and should be useful for general insulation applications.
...
Ceiling and WalUPPanels
Existing ceiling and wall panels have been coated with Fluorel impregnated fiberglass, with an overlay coating of transparent Kel-F applied for soil and stain resistance. The Fluorel surface can be furnished in an array of decorative designs. Panel backs have been coated with a mixture of 75 percent Fluorel/25 percent asbestos to prevent heat transfer as well as to provide fire protection.
Note that this is a fiberglass-based coating + asbestos, NOT wood based fiberboard.Conversely, other asbestos-backed or asbestos-impregnated or asbestos coated board products are described as using different materials such as
- Lamontagne, Jason. "A Boiler Jacket for WW&F Locomotive No. 9 Final Report."
Excerpt:
… of boiler jacket standoffs, to give the jacket sheets a firm backing. Originally, this backing was provided by stiff magnesia-asbestos fiber board insulation.
and
- Anderson, LeRoy Oscar. Construction of Nu-frame Research House:(utilizing New Wood Frame System). Vol. 88. Forest Products Laboratory, 1968.
Excerpt:
… They consist of thin, flat or beveled sections of redwood or cedar backed with low-grade …
Surface is covered with asbestosbacked polyvinyl-fluoride film. 5. Interior covering.--"Perm-…
A white polyvinyl-fluoride film with an asbestos mat backing was glued to the A face
Is there Asbestos in this layered wallboard in my 1910 Oregon Home?
I have a home that was built approximately 1910. It looks like the previous owners(I purchased 2018) drywalled over a fiber-like wall that is painted.
It seems to have a paper layer on the outside. I want to make sure it is not asbestos containing before making bigger holes to add electrical into.
The home is in in Cascade Locks, OR US. That's northwestern Oregon . Other details I have is the ceiling has 2" boards between the drywall and joists. I'm under the assumption that the Boards of concern are just a wooden based fiberboard, but the responses on the site seem very educated so I am triple checking. It is very sturdy.
Unfilled cinderblock perimeter foundation as well with updated 4x4 posts throughout underneath running perpendicular under the floor joists. - On 2022-11-18 by Trevor Johnson -
Reply by InspectApedia (Editor) - laminate of gypsum board and fiberboard
@Trevor Johnson,
Looks like a laminate of gypsum board and fiberboard,
But trying to zoom in for a better look, the photo is a bit blurry.Followup by Trevor Johnson
@InspectApedia (Editor), maybe this picture will help. Sorry, working with poor lighting at the moment
Reply by InspectApedia (Editor)
@Trevor Johnson,
That's a bit baffling, a hole in what looks like part of a ceiling material is brown and looks like fiberboard or wood fiber material but the edges look like white fluffy material that I can't identify from the photo.Often people added a layer of drywall or gypsum board over the original fiberboard ceiling or wall sheathing in older homes.
Comment by Trevor Johnson - cloth material used over fiberboard?
@InspectApedia (Editor), Oddly enough, it is a cloth material that they used over the fiberboard?
It is in the walls and the ceiling as well(I just replaced light fixtures and had to cut out enough of this material to allow Pot Lights to grab the new drywall). It is also more of a brown color.
I think it looks white do to the dust from the Drywall. The Cloth is what is painted over.
Reply by InspectApedia (Editor) - hybrid of fabric and fiberboard?
@Trevor Johnson,
If it's actually a wood fiber or fiberboard that's a plant product. However if there's gypsum board or a layer of plasterboard that might contain asbestos as might any joint compound if some was used.This sounds like a hybrid or field modified product. I'd like to see some more detail as it may help us do some research.
You may be looking at an original fiberboard interior wall that was later coated with something else.
That would not be a surprise in a house built in 1910.I'm wondering if it may even be a woven/fabric wallpaper or lining.
If I get any better pictures of it later, I will update here. I will also try to see if I can find any print on the back of any of it. Thanks for the input!
On 2022-11-23 by InspectApedia (Editor) - also check out early forms of plasterboard or "drywall" that were layered
@Trevor Johnson,
Good I look forward to seeing what else you can find and to seeing some more photos.Regarding your observation of apparent "paper layers" be sure to read
Is this board material in our attic, behind fireplace bricks, asbestos?
In the walk-in attic of our 1956 house there is some board that is breaking apart. This particular board is behind the bricks of the fireplace, but the same stuff my have been used to make the walls of the attic space.
What do you think this board is made of? Could it potentially be asbestos insulating boards? The board is about 1/2 inch thick and white or grey depending on the location. Thank you. - On 2023-02-12 by Valerie K
Reply by InspectApedia Editor
@Valerie K,
Are you able to see any markings anywhere you see this board?
See more of our discussion on this topic at SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENTWith the variety of your questions for different types of products, we encourage you to use the page top or bottom SEARCH BOX as a quick way to find information you need. That will help direct you to a relevant page.
On 2022-10-30 by Sheila Jackson - Fiberboard under my mobile home's floor is dark colored and falling to pieces: is this an asbestos product?
I have a mobile home built in the late 50s at my camp and underneath the floor and insulation at the bottom near the ground for the belly wrap material is some kind of dark colored board instead of the plastic used on the newer mobile homes.would this board have asbestos? I'm worried as its falling in pieces on the ground also.
On 2022-11-01 by InspectApedia-911 (mod) - asbestos is not likely in fiberboard used in, on or under a mobile home floor. Replace fiberboard in bad condition.
@Sheila Jackson,
From a brief text message I'm reluctant to speculate so wildly as to guess at what a dark colored board is - but if it resembles the fiberboard sheathing shown at SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT that'd be a reasonable guess.Fiberboard is a plant based product not one that would normally contain asbestos.
Falling to pieces means it needs replacement - perhaps accompanied by some diagnosis of the cause: moisture, water leaks?On 2022-11-04 by Sheila Jackson - what about asphalt-fiberboard?
@InspectApedia-911
It was some kind of asphalt fiberboard for under the mobile home floor board used as a belly board.so does these kind have asbestos?
On 2022-11-04 by InspectApedia (Editor) - does the asphalt fiberboard under the mobile home floor contain asbestos?
@Sheila Jackson,
If the board was manufactured in the U.S. before 1986 there could be asbestos in the asphalt coating - the board itself is usually wood fibre.
See FIBERBOARD SHEATHING ASBESTOS CONTENT
In any event if it's disintegrating it needs to be replaced.On 2022-11-05 by Sheila Jackson - has asbestos ever been found in the fiberboard asphalt coating before?
@InspectApedia (Editor), ok so has asbestos ever been found in the fiberboard asphalt coating before?
On 2022-11-06 by InspectApedia (Editor) - has asbestos ever been found in the fiberboard asphalt coating?
@Sheila Jackson,
Quoting from the start of this page
Does or did Celotex® fiberboard or or Georgia Pacific® fiberboard or Homasote® or other fiberboard and insulating board products contain asbestos?
This article addresses worries about asbestos in fiberboard insulating sheathing - a question that comes up during building demolition and renovation.
The short answer is "no" for wood-based or plant-based products and "yes" for certain other (not plant-based) LDB or LDF products that were specifically described as asbestos board; the history is interesting. We include research citations and testing lab referrals for concerned readers.
Fiberboard sheathing and Insulating Board products that were cellulose-based (not asbestos) and that are discussed here include these brands and names: Beaverboard, Blackboard, Brownboard, Celotex insulating lumber, Georgia Pacific insulating board, Gold Bond insulating board panels, Homasote, Insulite, Nu-Wood Sta-Rite, and others.Of course my answer above doesn't exclude the possibility that someone, a worker or homeowner, might have bought an asphalt-asbestos roof flashing cement or similar product and then applied it to fiberboard sheathing (or elsewhere) on their home.
But in my OPINION that sort of add-on of an asbestos containing material would be obvious - irregular in application - and should not be mistaken for a factory-applied waterproofing treatment used by some manufacturers to treat fiberboard including using an asphalt based product.
On 2022-09-22 by Julia - I want to know if my apartment's ceiling tiles contain asbestos.
I can't tell if my apartment ceiling tiles have asbestos. They look painted over. Found lead paint in the apartment with a test.
However, I'm worried that since the tiles were cut, have water damage, and are exposed, they are releasing fibres into the air.
I'm on the second floor of a family home that was turned into apartments in central Maine. I saw that it was built in 1900, renovation listed in 1950. I can't determine the material or age of the tiles. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Reply by InspectApedia (Editor) - do my painted over ceiling tiles contain asbestos?
@Julia,
Looks like 1950s fiber-based (plant) ceiling tiles though you'd need more information or an asbestos test to know for certain.
The ceiling, which appears to have been painted a time or two, if as it appears, is un-damaged, isn't hazardous if left intact, alone, un-disturbed.Your ceiling tiles might be plant based or fibrous, but they're not the fiberboard wall sheathing discussed on this page.
Please see:
DO THESE CEILING TILES CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 Easy Steps to tell if CEILING TILES are likely to contain asbestos -
On 2022-07-07 by Dim - Our roof-ceiling sheet is water damaged: does it contain asbestos?
Hi there, this roof ceiling sheet in our laundry is severely water damaged and not sure whether or not to be worried if this contains asbestos?
I've attached a an image close up of the damaged area. as for the rest of the roof it is stained (by the water) & sagging in areas but no other broken bits. Hopefully you can put our mind at ease!
On 2022-07-07 by InspectApedia-911 (mod) - moldy panels will need to be replaced: drywall may contain asbestos; fiberboard - unlikely.
@Dim,
If you're sure that the ceiling panels are fiberboard such as that described at SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT then our most thorough explanation of the possibility of asbestos content is given there and I hope you'll take a look.If those panels are gypsum board or drywall and or have coating of joint compound on them it's also possible that that material could contain asbestos. If water damage, what, moldy those panels will need to be replaced.
On 2022-05-08 by Julie - I'm worried sick that this board contains asbestos
Hi there please can you help me? I’m worried sick, is this board absestos?
On 2022-05-09 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator (mod)
@Julie,
That brown material in the upper part of your looks like a fiberboard product like those described at SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENTBut from just this image I can't tell if it's a hardboard like Masonite or a softer fiberboard.
See:
HARDBOARD MASONITE™ & OTHER BRANDS if the board is hard - you can't push a pencil point into it
or
SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT - if the board is softer
Don't worry yourself sick - the worry is itself a greater health hazard than any of these products.
On 2022-01-09 by Katie - is this asbestos fiberboard?
My garage ceiling,which was installed in the 60's I believe, is a gray, friable material with a "textured" back. It never occurred to me when we bought the house that it might be asbestos.
The owners before us, ripped some of it out to convert the 2 stall garage into a 1 stall. Needless to say, it is broken up in places and even the original seams look "frayed."
With the air drafts that move through the garage, it is certainly be disturbed. Is this likely to be asbestos or something else? I'm feeling quite anxious that I may have been exposing my family to this for years.
On 2022-02-28 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator (mod) - NO - that looks like asbestos millboard or cement board
That looks like it could be an asbestos millboard or cement board.
Take a look at ASBESTOS MILLBOARD where we'll repeat your questin and reply in more detail.
On 2023-02-23 by Mark - what's this gray and brown stuff in our school ceiling?
In a school ceiling.
On 2023-02-23 by InspectApedia Editor - insulating panel with added insulation above in ceiling
@Mark,
Hard to tell from just a photo but it looks like some type of insulating panel or fiberboard used as a base for a ceiling system that has exposed a different type of insulation above it that almost looks like shredded paper.
Do you know the year of construction? And where is it located - state, country?
See more details at the home page for
SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT(You are on the FAQs page for that topic)
Most wood or plant-based fiberboard does not contain asbestos. If you want to be sure of any possible asbestos content, you can have a sample tested.You might also want to compare that upper insulation with our photos of mineral wool or rock wool, for which you can find our articles by using that phrase in the on page search box
Search for
Rock wool insulation to see if that gray material is simply exposed attic insulation.
On 2023-02-12 by Bloo - is this tan fibrous board in myt 1940s house asbestos?
I'm wondering if this may have asbestos in it. My house was built in the 1940s and im assuming this paneling has been here since then. Can you tell me if this looks like it may contain asbestos?
On 2023-02-12 by InspectApedia Publisher
@Bloo,
Asbestos is unlikely
Please read
SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT - home page for this topic
https://inspectapedia.com/structure/Fiberboard-Sheathing-Asbestos.php
Our article for this topic
On 2022-08-15 by Tony Worried about broken fibreboard-looking material under kitchen floor in a UK Home - exposed to asbestos?
Hi. I am from UK - recently bought this house and found some broken "fibreboard-looking" materials under my kitchen sink floor. I am worried that we might have been exposed to asbestos.... Do these materials contain asbestos? Many thanks!
On 2022-08-15 by InspectApedia-911 (mod)
@Tony,
Probably not, but do take a look at our home page article that addresses your question more fully:
SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT
https://inspectapedia.com/structure/Fiberboard-Sheathing-Asbestos.phpYour photo looks like a thin hardboard product like Masonite.
On 2022-08-16 by Anonymous
@InspectApedia-911,
Thank you so much for your reply! I was worried because this "fibreboard" has similar patterns on surface as the Low Density Board (LDB) "Fiberboard" Products shown in the article refereed (but the colours are different). Is there anything I can do to reconfirm it does not contain asbestos? Many thanks!On 2022-08-16 by InspectApedia-911 (mod) - where to find asbestos test labs in the UK
@Anonymous,
Yes, you can take a look through the article I suggested, and then see if you can identify your specific fiberboard product as one of those discussed there - by pattern or stamping.
Or have a sample tested
ASBESTOS TEST LABS in the UK
keep me posted
On 2022-01-10 by Ben - did tearing off this fiberboard expose me to asbestos?
Had a roof leak and had to tear away some ceiling to get to it. The ceiling material turned out to be some sort of insulation board or particle board. My home was built in 1922 and I don’t know if this was an addition later on or what.
Either way, I’m concerned I may have exposed myself to asbestos and wanted to post a picture on this amazingly informative website to see if you had any input. I can find any markings on anything I’ve taken off but it looks quite similar to some of the other products you’ve posted.
On 2022-01-11 by (mod)
@Ben,
Your photos (just above & below) looks like fiberboard - not usually an asbestos product - see details at
SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT - the home page for this topic
https://inspectapedia.com/structure/Fiberboard-Sheathing-Asbestos.php
On 2021-12-29 by margie thaxton - If older fiberboard was cross-contaminated by asbestos can we tell by looking at it?
ok so if a old fiberboard would have gotton cross contaminated by asbestos,would the fiberboard look any different after being torn out of a wall or ceiling,like would the fiberboard still look tan or brown or appear white inside also or anything one could notice?
On 2021-12-30 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator - No.
@margie thaxton, you won't see any visual difference in a product that has cross-contaminated particles of another substance such as asbestos. You'd have to have the product tested.
On 2021-11-22 by Aaron - Fiberboard in a 1960s Garage in Wisconsin: Asbestos?
My grandparents garage in Wisconsin. Built in the 60s not sure what type of material and if it has asbestos
On 2021-11-22 by (mod)
@Aaron,
After reading the page above about asbestos in (though rarely) fiberboard,
Please also take a look at the examples given at
UNIDENTIFIED FIBERBOARD PRODUCTS
On 2021-11-22 by Dan - Photos of Build-Rite fiberboard used as ceiling tile material - any comment about asbestos?
Build rite used as ceiling tiles.
Any comments are welcome.
Follow up and closeup. Building is in Minnesota. We will test, but like an opinion as well.
On 2021-11-22 by (mod)
@Dan,
Thanks Dan,
Where in Minnesota ? (we're usually in Two Harbors)
That looks like a wood fiber product - possible but not likely to contain asbestos.
On 2021-09-01 by (mod) - Asbestos in fiberboard in 1980 house in Australia?
@markvansomething,
Like your other photo this looks like a wood or plant-based product; in Australia that's often a cane-board.
But yes you want to find and fix the leak, inspect to be sure that there's not enough damage to warrant replacement, then paint/seal the area to protect it from further deterioration.
Keep in mind that if the leak is from behind the board material that we can see, there will be some hidden damage there.
On 2021-09-01 by markvansomething
I am wondering if this exterior wall material might contain asbestos.
The corner section has a piece cracked off at the top, so wondering if it should be sealed.
The house was built in 1980 in Australia.
@inspectapedia.com.moderator, OK. Good to know. Thanks so much for your speedy answer! Cheers ! Mark
On 2021-08-31 by (mod)
@MarkVansomething,
That is a plant-product - fiberboard; your much greater concern here is extensive rot and the question of safety of the structure itself.
I suspect that the white material in your photo is a wood-rotting fungus.
On 2021-08-31 by MarkVansomething
Thanks for this website, its a fantastic resource! We are renting a house in Australia that was built in 1980.
On this balcony wall where the wood has rotted away, the grey material at the corner of the board is exposed.
By looking at this photo, is it possible to tell if this board might contain asbestos?
On 2021-08-16 by (mod)
@Erin,
No worries about mis-wording - happens to me too. Just doing my best to be accurate and ethical in these discussions.
On 2021-08-16 by Erin
@inspectapedia.com.moderator,
No I agree testing it's really not necessary I read the information articles that you suggested and I will take your advice.
I was just asking if I ever needed in the future to have a sample tested. Sorry I misworded my question. Thanks so much you have put my mind at ease I really appreciate it.
Thanks again Erin
On 2021-08-16 by (mod)
@Erin,
First, I'm not sure testing that material is necessary other than as a "peace of mind" step for someone who'd rather pay a lab than read through the information on this topic. That said, you can certainly have a material sampled for asbestos.
But, I'm sorry that we cannot the lab testing service that you asked about. In order to absolutely assure our readers that we write and report without bias we do not sell any products nor do we have any business or financial relationships that could create such conflicts of interest.
After decades of field investigation and forensic lab work, with exception of a few pro-bono or research assignments, I have retired from field work and also from forensic laboratory analysis work to concentrate full time on pure research and writing for InspectApedia.com.
InspectAPedia.com provides building and environmental diagnostic and repair information.
InspectAPedia is an independent publisher of building, environmental, and forensic inspection, diagnosis, and repair information for the public - we have no business nor financial connection with any manufacturer or service provider discussed at our website.
ASBESTOS TESTING SAMPLE COLLECTION https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Testing.php
describes a simple, inexpensive method for collecting tape samples suitable for settled dust, mold or other particle examination tests to make a qualitative assessment of dust or particles and to identify frequent, unusual, or hazardous particles, spores, mold, dust.
Any forensic or environmental test lab of your choice can process these samples.
Some labs are listed at
ASBESTOS TESTING LAB LIST https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos_Test_Lab_Lists.php
More about us is at ABOUT InspectApedia.com https://inspectapedia.com/Admin/About_InspectApedia.php
Respectfully
On 2021-08-16 by Erin
@inspectapediaI.com.moderator,
How could I go about sending you a sample to test?
On 2021-08-16 by (mod)
@Erin,
That is indeed a fiberboard sheathing product.
Please read the articleat SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT where you'll see details including this statement answering your question:
... this article addresses worries about asbestos in fiberboard insulating sheathing - a question that comes up during building demolition and renovation.
The short answer is "no" but the history is interesting. We include research citations and testing lab referrals for concerned readers.
On 2021-08-16 by Erin
Can you please tell me what this is and of it contains asbestos?
My husband closed off our carport making our carport into an extra room and yesterday they pulled this off underneath the outdoor siding.
Thanks for your help in a bit worried because they pulled a good amount of this off.
Thanks
On 2021-04-24 by scaredofasbestos
Hi there, does this appear to be asbestos? If yes/no - how can you tell? Thanks!
On 2021-04-24 - by (mod) -
@scaredofasbestos, that brown fibrous material is typically plant-based or cellulose;
Beyond that general observation you'll want to read the article SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT
On 2021-01-24 by (mod)
Right, Kevin, most of this material does not contain asbestos, but with apology, other than noting that your photo looks like a wood fibre material, I can't identify the brand.
If you decide to have the material tested for asbestos please let us know the result as that will help other readers.
On 2021-01-24 by Kevin
Hey there, doing some home Reno in a back room of our 110 year old house.
Mostly plaster and lathe and then sheet rock where improvements have been made over the years.
Came across some board, I believe fiber board of the wood fiber variety, but wanted to verify. Found it under a few layers of sheet rock. If you can identify that would be awesome.
Might send it away just make sure no asbestos.
On 2020-12-17 - by (mod) -
Anon
From context and appearance those white particles are not likely to be asbestos.
Actually the material in your photo looks like a loose fill insulation but, then, I'm just seeing a scrap, out of context,
If it's from demolition, as I suspect, there could certainly be gypsum or plaster debris mixed-in, possibly even with a cellulose or paper based insulating product.
Often we also find small rounded bits of styrofoam in some insulating products.
It would be of course helpful to know if that's actually a fiberboard material sc rap that looks as if it's on the ground outside, and it would be helpful to know the country and city of location and building age.
If you have photographs of the intact material from which that scrap was obtained, I would like to see those to see the edges of the material, the surfaces of the material, and any stampings or markings.
If the presence of that debris means that you face a potentially costly asbestos clean-up job,
then of course we either need to find clear identifying information to rule the use of asbestos in or out in a product or you would need to have a sample tested.
If you don't face such cost then such testing is unnecessary and inappropriate.
On 2020-12-16 by Anonymous
Hi, We are wondering what the hard white pebbles (red arrow pointing to [photo above] ) in this fiber board are? The board were on our roof as insulation. We are not sure what year they are from, maybe 50's or younger. Can it be asbestos? Thanks.
On 2020-08-02 - by (mod) -
Andrew
Nobody can tell by appearance alone if a cement-shingle siding contains asbestos or not. Not unless we have more information such as the age of the material or when it was bought or installed.
In fact I have installed new non-asbestos fiber-cement shingles on homes to replace damaged older asbestos-cement shingles, such that the new shingles were an exact match in pattern and size and shape for the old ones.
The fiber cement shingles on your home might contain asbestos, depending almost entirely on when that siding was purchased (and installed). You would need to either have a reasonable guess at the date (before 1985) or you'd have a sample tested.
It's all cement+fiber (asbestos or other) shingle siding.
Older versions were referred to as asbestos-cement shingle siding, newer as fiber cement shingle siding.
The change was to the use of other fiber materials (typically fiberglass ) to replace asbestos as a strengthener and filler material.
IF we knew that your fiber cement siding was installed on a building in North America before the mid 1980s and certainly if, as is more-likely, it was installed in the 1960s or earlier,
AND IF we knew that none of it had been replaced with newer product,
THEN it's a safe bet that it contains asbestos as all of that earlier fiber-cement siding was so manufactured.
On 2020-08-01 by Andrew Christianson
Hello. My current insurance company is saying the exterior wall of my home is asbestos. My inspection report when I purchased the home said fiberboard. The home was built in 1910, not sure if the siding was updated after, and is located in Newark, OH on 12th Street right next to the football stadium.
I added the images the inspector took back in August of 2018. Do you know if this is asbestos or not? Thank you.
On 2020-07-31 by Ellen Rollings - BIRD EST 1795 fiberboard identification
My apologies if this is a duplicate, I thought I’d submitted this but I can’t seem to find it now.
Basement closet walls are made of this fiberboard, which seems to have been painted at some point (no paper coating).
One board is embossed with BIRD EST 1795, the remainder have no marking.
The photo shows an area where at some point the board had been open up to allow the pipe to pass through. I’m curious if these boards potentially contain asbestos? Thanks!
On 2020-07-08 - by (mod) -
Angelina
Angelina please find your question and our detailed reply now at
CELOTEX ASBESTOS PRODUCTS
where we discuss the asbestos question.
Thanks for the photo and question
On 2020-07-08 by Angelina
Can anyone look at these pictures and tell if this Celotex on Exterior have Abestos?
In a home built in 1950s but has had several updates over the years most likly 1980s..
Thank u for info.
On 2020-07-01 7 - by (mod) - asbestos in blockboard (blackboard) sheathing?
Possibly, Paul. Did you check out the article above?
"Blackboard" or fiberboard insulation is generally a cellulose-fiber product - discussed above on this page.
I'm not sure where your plasterboard is on the building nor if for sure we're discussing a plasterboard or a wood-fibre based fiberboard.
So you'll also want to see
ASBESTOS in DRYWALL where we discuss the use of asbestos in plasterboard or gypsum board in both interiors and on some building exteriors as sheathing.
On 2020-07-01 by PAUL
Has blockbord as discribed on the plasterbord in my garage got asbestos in the garege roof has 2 layers
On 2020-05-17- by (mod) - does my exterior gypsum board sheathing contain asbestos?
It's possible, Mark, though what I've read of exterior sheathing gypsum board don't mention asbestos.
Please also see SHEATHING, GYPSUM BOARD
and post photos (1 per comment) of any labeling or markings so that I can research your question further.
On 2020-05-17 by mark
i own a home built in 1955 and am tearing off cedar shake siding. beneath is gypsum s-79-50 sheathing. i just want to know if it contains asbestos
We are considering purchasing a house in Catskill, NY that was built in 1890. [See photos above and below]
Removal of drop ceilings throughout reveals fiberboard covered with plaster. See attached. We are wondering if the fiberboard might contain asbestos?
We will have it sent for testing but need to act fast with the house purchase so are trying to get a sense of the likelihood of asbestos in the materials!
We think the fiberboard was possibly installed in the 1940s/1950s?
We will be doing renovation work ourselves so want to limit exposure, obviously! - Anonymous by private email
Thanks for the good question and photos. I trust you understand that I'm not going to bet a big sum of your money on a wild guess by email.
I see multiple layers of ceiling material including plaster on lath, fiberboard (often added to cover plaster in poor condition), and a suspended ceiling below all of that; in your fourth photo I see what looks like gypsum board or "drywall".
I don't know the composition of these materials, though I can say that most wood or plant-based fiberboard that looks like yours does not contain asbestos.
At our website we have an article about some exceptions and we discuss the question of asbestos in fiberboard
at SHEATHING, FIBERBOARD ASBESTOS CONTENT.
Your choices are to take a chance, risking an added surprise expense
There are other reasons to cover over such a ceiling material or wall material if it's also in your walls. That's for fire safety.
As you may read at our website in our articles on this topic, it's safest to leave such materials in place and least expensive and not harmful to the cover it over.
That's certainly what I would consider - laminating on a layer of half-inch drywall.
Watch out: the ceiling stains indicate a history of leaks from above - something to investigate further.
Your last photo shows that plasterboard or drywall was used in the building. (Depending on age some of that product contains asbestos).
I wanted to let you know that we sent our ceiling samples for testing and $400+ later we confirmed that your suspicions were right--no asbestos! The money is worth the peace of mind but I'm so thankful that I also wasn't too worried thanks to your advise. - Anonymous 2020/02/07
On 2019-11-19 by Adia
Thanks. I appreciate your input.
On 2019-11-1 by (mod) - R-value for Mil-spec fiberboard
Mil-spec fiberboard for finds a very small amount of insulation. But nothing compared with this benefit you would get by taking it down and insulating the wall cavities. Course you could leave it in place, insulate the walk have these by blowing into the cavities, and then still covering all of that with drywall.
However that's not a do-it-yourself project. If I were doing and I would pull it off insulate the walls with fiberglass Batts and put up a vapor barrier and then drywall
"Mil-spec fiberboard for finds a very small amount of insulation."
should have read
Typical 1/2" or thinner fiberboard sheathing affords a very small insulating value - about R 0.6
Details are at FIBERBOARD INSULATING VALUES
On 2019-11-19 by Adia
My house was built in 1948; 1st floor walls are plaster; 2nd floor walls are all beaver board (or some type of fiber board). I would like to take the beaver board down and replace with drywall after putting batting insulation between the studs.
But am curious if there any insulating value that beaver board provides? The upstairs is cold, as there is no plumbing run to the second floor for the radiant hot water heat the downstairs has. Oy. Thanks!
On 2019-10-20 by (mod) - Can anyone tell me what Manville Base Board is?
Derek
See the series of fiberboard identification tips and photos starting
at FIBERBOARD SHEATHING IDENTIFICATION
At a South Gate California facility, Johns Manville produced wallboard, blackboard sheeting, thincoat baseboard (4" wide), and plasters up to about February, 1966. That might describe your Manville Baseboard.
Also at a Newark California plant using gypsum, Johns Manville produced a fiberboard/paper wallboard to produce: wallboard, "blackboard", tongue and groove sheeting (24" wide), using raw materials from the Apex mine in Nevada, purchased by Johns Manville in 1967. - Source: Mineral Information Service, California DIvision of Mines and Geology, Vol. 20-22, January 1967, p. 199
On 2019-10-19 by Derek - Manville Baseboard used in kit homes
It is black and hard like danjoe wrote
Can anyone tell me what Manville Base Board is? Im siding a house that was built in 1966.
It was origionally a kit house. I pulled some shingles away and found the word Manville and this old sheathing is something I have never come across siding homes.
Im worried it could be asbestos paneling seeing it was made by Manville in the mid 20th century. Any info would be appreciated!!
On 2019-09-04 by (mod) - USG FIREPROOF marking on black wall sheathing
Could be an asbestos-containing material; if they're making a dusty mess there could be a hazard to the workers.
On 2019-09-04 by Joan M
A home near us is being demolished.
Face brick is down, revealing black wall sheathing marked USG FIREPROOF. The home was built on or about 1961.
On 2019-08-02 by (mod) - black Celotex 4x8 sheets were used on my house as exterior sheathing
Rick the best data we have about the question of asbestos in Celotex 4x8 sheets is at CELOTEX IB ASBESTOS CONTENT https://inspectapedia.com/structure/Fiberboard-Sheathing-Asbestos.php#Celotex
Please take a look there and then, ask away.
The asphalt- or wax-coating on insulating board is intended to resist moisture and wetting and can prevent the material from falling apart if exposed to the weather for a brief time. Make sure that the material is dry before re-installing (housewrap and) siding over it.
On 2019-08-02 by Rick B
Found black Celotex 4x8 sheets were used on my house as exterior sheathing. They appear to have an puter layer of asphaltic coating but I'm not sure. Can these get wet and still be OK to use? Do they get ruined by absorbing water if in the rain? If made in the 1970s would these sheets have asbestos?
On 2019-04-24 by Anonymous - asbestos in brown insulation in old tobacco curing barn?
Stewart
What did you think about the discussion of the asbestos question in fiberboard sheathing as presented in the article above?
On 2019-04-23 by Stewart
I have an old tobacco curing barn that I converted to a storage building and it has a fiber board insulation on the underside of the metal roofing.
It is brown colored and all falling to pieces, and I'm concerned about it being asbestos. I imagine the barn is about 50 years old, maybe more. Just the ceiling is insulated with this insulation. I don't see any product name on the material.
On 2019-04-02 by (mod) -
Thanks for an interesting question Rich,
I'll be glad to do some research but first it'd help to know what we're discussing:
roof deck
deck boards
sheathing,
what?
Perhaps you can also post photos (one per comment) of the material in situ and of any labels or markings - that'd help too.
On 2019-04-01 by Rich
I am looking for structural info on Cementos decking that was used on our building in or around 1940. How much weigh can it support, etc. I can't seem to find any info online about the product.
On 2019-03-07 by (mod) -
Rafael
Are we looking at felt paper used in the construction of an exterior wall?
Indeed some older asphalt-impregnated felt (paper) contained asbestos. Before making a dusty mess of the material you might want to have a sample tested; if you decide to do that keep me posted as that'll help other readers.
The rest of what we know about abestos in fiberboard is in the article above.
On 2019-03-07 by Rafael
Hello,
I'm remodeling my basement. The house was built in 1941. The basement was partially finished. The walls have 3 layers. First layer is wood panel, 2nd is fiberboard maybe, and the 3rd looks like thick black felt paper. I'm just concerned about that 2nd layer. If it has asbestos or is it just a normal fiberboard from that era. Thanks
IMAGE LOST by older version of Comments code - now fixed. Please re-post the image if you can. Sorry. Mod.
On 2019-02-14 by (mod) - asbestos test that was NEGATIVE for some insulating / wall board
Thank you Adam that's helpful information that would be even more helpful if we
Knew the age of material
Or
Age of building,
Country, city
And had photos of the material surfaces, edge, and any stamps or markings.
On 2019-02-14 by Adam
Not sure where to post this, but thought I'd add the results of an asbestos test that was NEGATIVE for some insulating / wall board that I found in my kitchen when renovating. This was laid over the plaster wall, I assume to create a flat surface that was then wallpapered. Still don't understand why they hung it horizontally, but some things may be unknowable. The results of the test were:
65% CELLULOSE FIBER
15% MINERAL/GLASS WOOL
20% NON FIBROUS MATERIAL
IMAGE LOST by older version of Comments code - now fixed. Please re-post the image if you can. Sorry. Mod.
On 2019-01-01 by (mod) - reader frightened by OSB sheathing
Micky
OSB wafer board does not contain asbestos.
And OSB wafer board is not a fiberboard product but rather is made of wood chips and glue.
It's important for you to find a doctor whom you trust and to listen to that doctor's advice.
I recommend reading about MORGELLONS SYNDROME
Details about OSB sheathing are found at SHEATHING, OSB and include OSB panel identification and ingredients.
On 2019-01-01 by Micky
Do you know anywhere I can contact ? Because I was placed and subjected to a very harmful OSB BOARDS when I bought a home the HOA accused me of being in VIOLATIONS, not disclosed to me I placed all funds as my down payment on the home so I didn't want to be heavily fined by the HOA.
I find out later the DENIED SELLERS a PERMIT to have built a extra bedroom halfway wrong. SELLERS ABANDONED HOME. I tried to do myself what HOA EXPECTED me and threatened me to finish and fix.
Unknowingly I had been getting extremely close to, and hammering next to, and painting it. OLD WEATHERED OSB BOARDS that pierced fine asbestos fibers and splinters everywhere in my flesh.
It's been over 3 years and it's still pouring and popping out of my skin including my entire FACE.
Pleading for anyone to help me.
All the DOCTORS at the ER HOSPITAL thinks I'm seeing things, and won't believe a word I say nor help me at all after 12 different visits the 1st by ambulance.
Call me 435 862 8947
On 2018-08-19 by (mod) - examples of wood- or plant- based fiberboard
I agree with you on item #1, I think #2 is cellulosic - wood or another cellulose based product, but that's speculation as we can't see much, and I agree about #3.
See FIBERBOARD SHEATHING IDENTIFICATION at https://inspectapedia.com/structure/Fiberboard-Sheathing-Identification-Key.php
for more identification tips and photos of similar materials.
If you find any stampings or markings that would be useful too.
On 2018-08-19 by James
We have come across several different materials while preparing to remodel a 1930 home. I have three samples in the attached image and labeled with numbers.
I have done a lot of reading on this website and others, and will put my thoughts, but was hoping you could help determine if you feel any of these have asbestos.
1. Back side of 9" ceiling tile. From my reading it seems that ceiling tiles in this timeframe should just be handled as if they do contain asbestos. Any thoughts?
2. Orangish type wallboard that was in kitchen. Not sure this looks wood based. Thoughts?
3. Brownish fiberboard. This looks like other images i have seen on the website that say they are wood based and most likely do not contain asbestos. This is installed on the walls around the fireplace and kitchen. Thoughts?
Thanks for any help.
James
On 2018-03-19 by (mod) - does Allied Chemical/Barrett Division R-brace mediate sheathing contain asbestos?
From the product name and from your photo I infer that this sheathing board was intended to provide some insulation - hence the "R" in its R-brace name - as well as to serve as bracing of a wood-framed wall against lateral movement, hence the "brace" in its name.
Details are at ALLIED Chemical / Barrett Division R-brace Sheathing
On 2018-03-19 by Laura
Can you please tell me if the ‘Allied Chemical/Barrett Division R-brace mediate sheathing’ contains any asbestos?
My husband is going to take this sheathing down from a wall in our house and I am concerned about what it’s made with.
Thanks for your help,
Laura
On 2018-03-15 7 by (mod) - Does stalwart sheathing contain asbestos?
Jessi
To have space for illustrations and citations I repeat your question and give a detailed reply
at ASBESTOS in FLINTKOTE Stalwart™ SHEATHING
You might need to clear your browser cache to see the updated article.
On 2018-03-15 by jessi
Does stalwart sheathing contain asbestos
On 2017-11-13 by (mod) - Identify Graylite as Insulite
Brandon,
If the board is gray in color perhaps it's Insulite who made an interior finish board called "Graylite"
Insulite was a cellulose-based (all wood fiber) insulating board or sheathing material
See
Insulite - see IDENTIFY Insulite, cellulose fiber board product useful for plasterboard
On 2017-11-13 by Bradon Knox - Graylite Insulating Board
Hello, I am looking everywhere trying to find out if"Graylite insulation board " has asbestos in it. I have found a stack of it on my property, 60 sheets to be exact.
They are 4x8 sheets 3/4 " thick. Do you have any information on this product? Thank you for your time.
knoxland@comcast.net
On 2017-06-25 by Diana R
I could not find any info on the black board product that I pulled out of my house. It carries the name Eastman and has the code PS 57-73. I believe it to be cellulostic fiber insulation board. Does it carry any chemical or asbestos risks from breathing the dust.
My pooch spent a lot of time shredding it since it was applied as sound proofing on an upstairs floor and I've probably breathed a lot of the dust particles when removing it as well. Would you know where I could locate SDS on the material?
On 2017-03-06 by (mod) - The fiberboard has square grids. Any ideas on what this could be?
Typically fiberboard - a wood cellulose product. See FIBERBOARD SHEATHING - homeOn 2017-03-05 by Melinda Warren
I'm removing what I thought was ceramic tile but turned out to be metal from bathroom. Behind the tile is a dark brown fiberboard that was nailed to wood and then it appears glue was applied to hold the metal tile.
The fiberboard has square grids. Any ideas on what this could be? House was built late 40's or early 50's.
On 2016-11-12 by Jason Wojnowiak - Celotex thermax sheathing
I have a pic of some Celotex thermax sheathing where could I send it and would you know if it contains asbestos?On 2016-10-11 by Dave Childs - Tuf-Flake Floor Underlayment,
I have Tuf-Flake Floor Underlayment, Mill 32 Type 1-8-1 with another number such as C8236-61 (can't clearly read it) used as underlayment for carpet in my home built in 1971. Is there a way to confirm that it does not contain asbestos?
Can't find any reference online.
Thank you for this site! Very helpful!
On 2016-05-23 by Justin
I have a pic of that type of insulation board if you still would like to research it but I will need to email it to you.On 2016-03-26 1 by (mod) - Temple brand insulating board
Anon:On 2016-03-26 by Anonymous
Yes I am remodeling a house and it has temple insulation board was wondering if abestos is a issue or can I get feedback on the product.On 2016-03-19 by (mod) - Flintkote wallboard asbestos?
Tim to know for certain about your building materials you'd be best served by an inexpensive lab test of a representative sample (about $50 U.S.D.)On 2016-03-10 by Tim
I have a building I'm taking down with two different kinds of sheathing one is burrite and the other is flintkote how do I know if they contain asbestos
On 2016-01-13 by Ethan W - NY Beaverboard company appears to have received shipments of ground vermiculite from Libby Montana
The NY Beaverboard company appears to have received shipments of ground vermiculite from Libby Montana, which is known to contain Tremolite, Winchite and Richterite amphibole asbestiforms (asbestos).
I have come across beaverboard with a gold reflective side which I suspect is the ground vermiculite adhered to the inside surface of the board. As such, it seems that there is a possibility that these types of materials could contain some asbestos.
On 2015-12-08 by (mod) - getting ready to demo a structure with Simpson Insulation Sheathing
Thanks for the feedback, Leslie.
If you can contribute some photos of the sheathing you're demo'ing, including any markings, please do so - use the page bottom CONTACT link. That may help other readers.
Daniel
On 2015-12-07 by Leslie W
Thanks for the website - getting ready to demo a structure with Simpson Insulation Sheathing and am more confident now about it not containing asbestos.
...
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