Is there asbestos in drywall of a 1950s-built house with no detected asbestos?
Asked by Veronica Morel 
4 months ago
Last Updated: July 26, 2024
Hey, just wanted to give you an update – no asbestos found! 😊 The house was built in the 1950s, do you have any idea what type of drywall they used back then?
My initial response would be … something that would require me to wear a respirator to eliminate.
Hey , let’s wait and see what happens in 10 years 🤯
Remember, always use PPE when in doubt
Sure thing! I’m planning on getting it tested. Definitely worth the $50
Hey Jim, could you search for homasote board? It’s really safe, most likely that’s what it is. It’s been around for 100 years.
Why are you thinking about showing your private parts, Jim?
I would love to do that anyway!
I’m thinking it might be Homasote or something similar. It’s made of cellulose. It’s used for sound deadening and offers a bit of insulation. Can’t say for sure though. It might be a good idea to have it checked.
Yeah, I totally agree that it’s Homasote. When I bought a business in AZ on Highway 93 towards the Grand Canyon from Vegas, the building was from 1921. The store, which used to be a counter-type cafe for years (now a Deli convenience store), had that material on the ceilings instead of sheetrock. The issue with it was that it sags over time, so we ended up replacing it with sheetrock.
Thank you both! I did some extensive online research and it could possibly be Celotex Fiberboard as well. Sending it for testing today.
Appears to be particleboard of a sort
Seems risky ⚠️
I’ve come across that before. It’s often used as an inexpensive option for walls in unfinished spaces like attics and garages.
My house was built back in 1946. The insulation is this stuff called Celotex, which is actually made from wood pulp and coconut fiber.
That’s awesome! I did some digging and found the same information. Thanks!
You were spot on! There’s no asbestos after all. 😎
I’m glad you mentioned that. It’s really careless to randomly shout out “asbestos” like that. I don’t think all the experts who shared their opinions last week will come back to correct themselves now.
Asbestos
Make sure you’re completely sure before blurting things out like that.
Was asked what it looked like and he would have said the same! It resembles Asbestos! Could it be?! Perhaps, perhaps not. The homeowner should consider testing it to be sure. You can’t fault someone for stating their opinion when that’s what they were asked!
Met I can assure you he is unaware of what it is. It’s irresponsible to haphazardly label something as “Asbestos” without proper knowledge.
I didn’t witness any shouting or excessive drama in responses. Exaggerating the situation may not be the best approach, to be honest.
I don’t think it’s unreasonable at all; if it resembles asbestos in any way, it’s best to handle it cautiously until confirmed otherwise.
Thank you all! I’m sending it for testing. I’ll be sure to share the results in case anyone else is curious in the future. Asbestos is definitely a sensitive topic! ☢️☣️⚠️
I bet you’re someone who constantly craves attention and validation wherever you can get it! 🤣
Met seems a bit excessive and intrusive. I just find it bothersome when random posters create unnecessary stress and panic by making wild guesses. The OP could be losing sleep worrying about asbestos, even if it’s not asbestos at all. It’s like yelling fire in a crowded room.
I’m shocked by the negativity people are showing. Shouldn’t this group be about giving advice, not attacking others personally? That’s social media for you! Thanks for your advice once again, Marc. 😊
Just wanting to help someone avoid unnecessary panic and stress. I remember a similar situation when we moved into our house 20 years ago and freaked out about asbestos. I tore out the basement ceiling tiles without checking first and spent a week thinking the worst. It’s a horrible feeling.
Completely
The local real estate agents might have insights on the materials used in that area.
Avoid consuming it.
Hey, make sure to wear a mask while you work on that task.
Definitely looks like Homasote, as mentioned. Just got rid of some myself a few weeks back when I was renovating a room in my house. Personally, I don’t think it’s dangerous at all other than being a bit dusty.
Seems to me like it’s not drywall, probably Tentest. You should check it out on Home Depot!
We used to refer to it as fiber board. Is there asbestos present?
It appears to be Masonite, which is a cost-effective option compared to drywall. It could possibly be Homosote.
It seems to be homasote board. Homasote is a type of cellulose-based fiber wall board made from recycled paper and compressed under high temperature and pressure, without the use of adhesives.
I’ve got a lot of that stuff in my house. It doesn’t bother me at all. Thanks for your helpful response.
Sure thing! Here is the gently rephrased text:
You’re welcome, .
Hey , thanks again! I actually came across a small piece of old newspaper in that spot, so it all adds up. It definitely has a mix of cardboard and paper vibes.
Here’s an interesting tidbit: I’ve personally witnessed it being utilized twice in the past 40 years. Once for cashmere wrapped panels in a luxurious home hallway. The second time, we used it as a protective pad underneath 1/4 inch plywood during a demolition project.
That’s fascinating. Sounds like it was a cost-effective option.
I believe sound and insulation were the primary considerations
When working with Homasote board, it’s a good idea to wear a respirator. If you’re unsure while removing it, just make sure to wet it down to prevent dust from forming. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Thanks a lot!!
No problem
That appears to be cellulose, but I recommend getting it checked for asbestos.
Try a tiny bite.
I’d love to send you a sample. Troll.
Asbestos is not safe.
Seems like passion is flaky
It’s actually used in the shared kitchen walls where I work, nestled between the drywall and studs, sometimes even with two layers of drywall!
It’s not drywall, it’s plaster and lathe with horsehair.