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10 Common Asbestos Materials Still Found in Denver Homes

Asbestos was once hailed as a “miracle material” in construction — resistant to fire, water, and corrosion. But today, it’s a hidden danger in thousands of Denver properties. Homes built before 1988 often contain asbestos in floors, walls, ceilings, and even ductwork.

In this guide, we break down the 10 most common asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), where they’re found in Denver, and what you should do if you suspect your home has them.

1. Asbestos Cement (Sheets & Pipes)

Heavily used in mid-20th-century construction for siding, roofing, and water lines. These grayish, fibrous panels and pipes often show up in homes across Park Hill and Barnum. Cutting or drilling into them without testing is a major risk.

2. Floor Tiles

9×9” vinyl asbestos tiles were cheap, durable, and popular — especially in kitchens, basements, and commercial floors. If your Denver home was built in the ’50s–’70s and has old tiles, there’s a good chance they contain asbestos.

3. Ceiling Tiles & Panels

Square or rectangular drop ceiling panels in basements or office buildings often contain asbestos. Look out for light-colored tiles with a fibrous texture — common in schools and multifamily buildings around Five Points and Glendale.

4. Popcorn Ceilings

Those bumpy, textured ceilings? If installed before the mid-1980s, they’re likely asbestos-based. Disturbing them during renovations — even with sanding or patching — can release dangerous fibers into your home.

5. Pipe Insulation

Wrapped around hot water or steam pipes, this chalky or crumbly insulation is a major red flag. It’s especially common in older Denver basements and utility rooms, and often looks like white plaster wrap.

6. Duct Insulation & Tape

Some duct systems have insulation blankets or backing made with asbestos. The silver tape or lining around joints in older HVAC systems could also contain it.

7. Roofing Materials

Flat roofs and commercial buildings often have asbestos in shingles, tar paper, and roofing felt. These are durable but dangerous when deteriorating — and often go unnoticed during renovations.

8. Siding Panels

Asbestos-cement siding panels were sold as “maintenance-free” and fire-resistant. Still found on mid-century homes throughout Denver, especially in older suburbs like Lakewood and Wheat Ridge.

9. Gaskets & Brake Pads

Still a concern in industrial zones or auto shops. These parts were heat-resistant, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications — and dangerous during repair or demolition.

10. Joint Compound & Textured Paint

Used to finish drywall seams and add texture to walls, these materials were often asbestos-enhanced pre-1980. Renovating without testing can expose workers and families alike.

Why This Matters in Denver

Under Colorado law, any structure built before 1988 requires asbestos testing before:

  • Renovation
  • Demolition
  • Permit applications

Whether it’s one wall or an entire building, the CDPHE (Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment) mandates inspections by certified professionals. Failing to comply can lead to:

  • Fines from CDPHE
  • Permit delays or denials
  • Legal liability if someone is exposed

The Health Risks Are Real

When asbestos materials are disturbed, tiny fibers can become airborne. Once inhaled, they lodge deep in the lungs and may cause:

  • Mesothelioma
  • Asbestosis
  • Lung cancer

There’s no safe level of exposure — even one weekend renovation project can be enough to put your health at risk.

What Does Asbestos Testing Cost in Denver?

Here’s what you can expect to pay for professional inspections (based on certified pricing):

  • Small Renovation (1–2 materials): $250
  • Medium Renovation (3–4 materials): $350
  • Large Renovation (5+ materials): $450
  • Partial Demolition: $450
  • Partial Demo + Permit Handling: $550

Same-day appointments are available, and our team responds to form submissions in under 15 minutes.

A Real Example From the Field

Recently, a homeowner in Denver metro area (Lakewood) called us before gutting their kitchen. The house, built in 1961, had original flooring and duct insulation. Our test revealed asbestos in the tile adhesive and around the old vents — both invisible to the eye.

Had they started the renovation without testing, they would’ve unknowingly exposed their entire family.

FAQs

Is asbestos still legal in Denver homes?
Yes. It’s legal to own, but illegal to disturb or dispose of without following CDPHE procedures.

Can I remove asbestos myself?
No. Colorado law requires licensed professionals for most removal jobs, especially those involving friable (easily crumbled) material.

Do I need a test if I’m only removing cabinets or flooring?
Yes — if the material may disturb the wall, floor, or ceiling underneath, testing is required.

Trust Enviocore: Certified, Local, Fast

We’re not just another inspection company. Enviocore is:

  • EPA Certified
  • CDPHE Registered
  • IICRC Trained
  • BBB Accredited

And we’re based in Colorado — serving Denver properties with same-day inspections, clear reports, and expert support.

Need Asbestos Testing in Denver?
We respond in under 15 minutes and can be on-site the same day.
Schedule your inspection now.

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