What is Asbestos & What Are the Main Types of Asbestos?
Asbestos is a word that most homeowners and property managers have heard, but many don’t fully understand. It’s often associated with danger, old buildings, and health risks—but what exactly is asbestos? Why was it used for so many years? And what are the different types of asbestos?
If you’re researching asbestos removal services or trying to understand how asbestos may affect your home, this guide will break it all down in simple terms. We’ll also explore the six main types of asbestos and explain why knowing the difference matters when it comes to asbestos removal in Vancouver and other cities across British Columbia.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals made up of soft, flexible fibers. These fibers are resistant to heat, fire, electricity, and chemical corrosion. Because of these properties, asbestos was once considered a “miracle material” and used in thousands of products across Canada and around the world.
For decades, it was common in homes, schools, and workplaces—especially in construction materials like:
- Insulation
- Floor tiles
- Roof shingles
- Cement products
- Pipe coverings
- Ceiling textures (like popcorn ceilings)
It wasn’t until the late 20th century that the dangers of asbestos exposure became widely known. Inhaled asbestos fibers can get stuck in the lungs and lead to serious health conditions over time.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
When asbestos materials are disturbed—like during renovations or demolition—they can release tiny fibers into the air. Breathing in these fibers can cause long-term damage, including:
- Asbestosis: Scarring of the lungs that makes breathing difficult
- Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen
- Lung cancer: Especially in those who also smoke
- Pleural plaques and thickening: Changes in the membrane around the lungs that can reduce lung function
The scary part is that symptoms may take 10 to 40 years to show up, which is why asbestos is often called a “silent killer.”
That’s why it’s important to identify and remove asbestos safely—especially in older homes. Professional asbestos removal services are trained to handle this process without putting anyone at risk.
Why Was Asbestos So Popular?
Before its dangers were known, asbestos was added to materials because it made them:
- Stronger
- More fire-resistant
- Better insulated
- Longer-lasting
This made it especially useful in construction, shipbuilding, and automotive industries. Even today, some countries still use asbestos—but Canada officially banned the use, import, and sale of asbestos in 2018.
However, thousands of buildings built before the 1990s still contain asbestos. That’s where asbestos removal services come in.
The 6 Main Types of Asbestos
Asbestos isn’t just one material—it actually refers to six different minerals, which are divided into two groups: serpentine and amphibole. Let’s take a closer look.
1. Chrysotile (White Asbestos)
- Group: Serpentine
- Appearance: Fine white fibers that are curly
- Used in: Insulation, floor tiles, roofing, ceilings, walls, cement
- Most common type of asbestos
Chrysotile is the most widely used form of asbestos and was found in about 90–95% of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in North America. It was often used in drywall compound, popcorn ceilings, and pipe insulation.
Even though some believed chrysotile was “less dangerous” than other types, studies now show it’s still highly hazardous when inhaled.
2. Amosite (Brown Asbestos)
- Group: Amphibole
- Appearance: Straight, brittle brown fibers
- Used in: Cement sheets, insulation boards, pipe insulation, ceiling tiles
Amosite is the second most common type found in buildings and is more dangerous than chrysotile due to its sharp, needle-like fibers that penetrate lung tissue more easily.
3. Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos)
- Group: Amphibole
- Appearance: Thin, blue fibers
- Used in: Spray-on coatings, pipe insulation, cement products
Crocidolite is considered the most dangerous type of asbestos. Its fine, sharp fibers break apart easily and are easily inhaled. Fortunately, it wasn’t used as much in Canada compared to other types.
4. Tremolite
- Group: Amphibole
- Appearance: Can be white, green, or gray
- Used in: Sometimes found as a contaminant in vermiculite, talc, and other materials
Tremolite was never used on its own but often appears as a hidden contaminant in other minerals. Some old insulation products (like Zonolite vermiculite) contain tremolite, making it a concern in attic spaces.
5. Actinolite
- Group: Amphibole
- Appearance: Greenish tint, long fibers
- Used in: Not used commercially, but found in contaminated materials
Like tremolite, actinolite wasn’t widely used, but may still be present in some construction materials. It has a fibrous texture and is toxic if disturbed.
6. Anthophyllite
- Group: Amphibole
- Appearance: Gray or dull brown fibers
- Used in: Limited use in insulation and cement; mostly a contaminant
Anthophyllite is one of the rarest forms and is not often found in homes. Still, it’s good to be aware of it, especially in older insulation products.
Do Asbestos Types Matter for Removal?
Yes. Different asbestos types behave in different ways. Some are more friable (easily crumbled), while others are more stable unless disturbed. This affects:
- Risk levels
- Containment procedures
- Disposal methods
- Protective gear used
That’s why proper testing is the first step in any asbestos removal job. A certified professional will take small samples and send them to a lab to determine which types are present. Once confirmed, a detailed removal plan can be created based on the type, amount, and condition of the asbestos.
When Should You Call an Asbestos Removal Service?
You should reach out to asbestos professionals if:
- You plan to renovate an older home
- You see crumbling tiles, insulation, or ceiling textures
- You discover vermiculite in your attic
- You’re buying or selling a property built before the 1990s
- You’re unsure about the materials used in your home or building
Professionals use sealed areas, special vacuums, and protective gear to ensure no one is exposed during the process. They also handle proper disposal at licensed asbestos waste facilities.
Never attempt to remove asbestos yourself—it’s not worth the health risk.
The Role of Certified Professionals in Asbestos Vancouver Projects
In Vancouver, asbestos removal is heavily regulated by WorkSafeBC. All asbestos contractors must now be licensed and certified under Bill 5, which became effective in January 2024. This means homeowners and property managers are legally required to use certified professionals for asbestos abatement projects.
At Foralis Environmental, our team is fully certified, trained, and experienced in handling all types of asbestos—from common chrysotile to dangerous crocidolite. Whether you’re dealing with ceiling tiles, insulation, or older siding, we know how to assess, contain, and remove asbestos safely.
Is Your Property at Risk? Let Us Help
Understanding the types of asbestos is the first step in protecting your home, your health, and your family. If your property was built before the 1990s, there’s a chance asbestos may still be present in flooring, insulation, ceilings, or walls — even if it looks perfectly normal.
At Foralis Environmental, we don’t just test for asbestos. We handle everything from certified inspection to safe, regulation-compliant removal. Our team is fully licensed under WorkSafeBC’s 2024 asbestos certification rules, and we follow every safety protocol to the letter.
Whether you’re planning a renovation, concerned about aging materials, or just want peace of mind, our experts are here to help.
📞Call +1 (778) 798-6782 or schedule a free consultation to get started.
We proudly serve Vancouver and surrounding regions, including Victoria, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, Kamloops, Kelowna, the Okanagan, Prince George, Merritt, and more.