Does a house built in 1905 might have asbestos?

[RayinAK]

Air samples are only done if there is a need to check the air for asbestos fibers. For example, if a contractor is going to remove asbestos from a wall is an abatement or renovation project, the contractor sets air monitoring devices (electric pumps with catch filters) prior to performing the work. This air sample sessions continue through the work until the inspector has completed the final inspection and clears (gives a passing grade) the work being done. To test for asbestos in the sheetrock walls or ceilings, what is done are called core samples.

There is a small chance for a house built in 1905 to contain asbestos, but the use of asbestos for home construction began in the 1940's. That said, the chance for asbestos in a 1905 house is from renovation or other work in the house in later years.

[Coldjensens]

"Most types of asbestos-containing plaster were manufactured between 1942 and 1974.[1] If your house was built or renovated during that time, it's a good idea to have it tested. That said, asbestos was used in stucco and drywall as early as 1910, and use continued at a slower rate until at least the early 1980's.[2] Asbestos is even used in some building materials today, but the risk is fairly low if your house was built in the 1990's or late"

"Even if the plaster does contain asbestos, this is not a health risk as long as it is in good condition. If you see crumbling, cracks, or water damage, or if the plaster has been sawed, scraped, or sanded, it may be releasing asbestos fibers.[5] If the plaster is undamaged, it's usually best to leave it alone. Check periodically and take a sample only if damage appears later."


I think some of their advice is overkill, but here is the link. How to Identify Asbestos in Plaster - wikiHow



It was pretty rare to use asbestos in wall plaster. however it was sometimes used in decorative ceiling plaster and in patching mud. It was much more common in insulation, exterior shingles (and stucco), and flooring/adhesives. You mostly find it in insulation around pipes. It is actually a great material and I wished they still used it. Asbestos siding and floor tiles lasted forever. They only need to exercise greater care at manufacturing facilities and during installation.

Do what makes you feel comfortable. I might think it is a waste of money, but if you have asbestos and it makes you afraid of your house, then remove it and be happier. If you identify it, you will have to disclose that on any future sales.

[Listener2307]

Originally Posted by temokk

the house was built in 1905.. the wall seems to be made with horse hair and some white hairs in the plaster... is there a chance the white hairs might be abestos

What difference would it make?
How did the previous occupants die?