If you live in a home built before the 1990s in Vancouver, BC, there’s a good chance it contains asbestos. While once praised for its insulation and fireproofing qualities, we now know that asbestos poses serious health risks when disturbed—and it’s still hiding in many older Vancouver properties.
Here’s where asbestos is commonly found in homes across the region—and how to deal with it safely and legally.
Why Asbestos Was Used in Vancouver Construction
Asbestos was a popular building material in mid-20th century Canada, especially in growing cities like Vancouver. It was:
- Fire-resistant
- Durable and insulating
- Affordable and widely available
Due to Vancouver’s wet coastal climate, asbestos was heavily used in materials like pipe insulation and roofing, offering both weatherproofing and thermal protection.
Common Areas Where Asbestos Hides in Older Homes
Let’s break down the most likely locations in a Vancouver home that may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs):
Ceilings
- Popcorn or textured ceilings, especially installed between the 1950s and 1980s
- Decorative ceiling tiles or “cottage cheese” finishes often contain chrysotile asbestos
- Dangerous when scraped or sanded during renovations
Walls
- Drywall joint compound used before 1990
- Older plaster walls in homes from the 1940s–60s
- Risk of exposure during wall repair, drilling, or demolition
Flooring
- Vinyl floor tiles (particularly 9”x9” or 12”x12”)
- Linoleum with asbestos backing
- Black mastic glue (common in basements or older kitchens)
- Scraping or sanding floors can release airborne fibres
Insulation
- Vermiculite insulation, especially in attics, may contain asbestos
- Boiler wrap, pipe lagging, and duct insulation—often found in basements and crawlspaces
- These friable materials are among the most hazardous when disturbed
Roofing and Siding
- Asphalt roofing shingles and cement board siding
- Found on many post-war homes in East Vancouver, Kitsilano, and surrounding areas
- Fibres are released during roof repairs or siding removal
Kitchens and Bathrooms
- Older adhesives, grouts, and sealants
- Asbestos-containing underlayment beneath kitchen linoleum
- Risk increases during remodels and floor replacement
Basements & Crawl Spaces
- Old furnace insulation, tape, and wrapping
- Steam pipe insulation in older heating systems
- These hidden areas are often disturbed during energy upgrades or moisture repairs
Visual Clues to Watch For
While asbestos cannot be identified by sight alone, you may spot these red flags:
- Home built before 1990
- Silver or white paper-like insulation around ducts
- Cracking or peeling ceiling textures
- Corrugated grey siding
- Small square tiles with worn or stained surfaces
If you see any of the above, do not disturb the material—schedule a professional inspection.
Renovations and Demolitions: The Danger of Disturbing Asbestos
Asbestos is most dangerous when disturbed—as in:
- Cutting, drilling, or sanding
- Removing flooring, drywall, or ceiling finishes
- Demolition or restoration work
In British Columbia, WorkSafeBC regulations require asbestos testing before any renovation or demolition of buildings built before 1990.
Ignoring these rules not only risks your health—it can result in legal penalties and costly remediation.
Why You Should Never DIY Asbestos Removal
Asbestos fibres are:
- Microscopic
- Airborne
- Deadly when inhaled
Without proper containment and HEPA filtration systems, even a small disturbance can contaminate an entire home.
Always contact a licensed asbestos abatement company in Vancouver. These professionals follow:
- Government safety protocols
- Sealed removal and disposal processes
- Certified air quality monitoring
What to Do If You Suspect Asbestos
- Stop any renovation or demolition work immediately
- Do not touch, scrape, or drill suspected materials
- Call a certified asbestos removal professional in Vancouver
- Schedule testing and safe removal if needed
A trusted local company will conduct a thorough inspection and provide safe, legal abatement with minimal disruption.
Protect Your Health—Inspect Before You Renovate
Asbestos can still be found in many parts of older homes throughout Vancouver—from basements to attics, and everywhere in between. The safest choice is always to assume asbestos is present in pre-1990 materials until tested.
Whether you’re renovating, buying, or maintaining your home, work with a licensed Vancouver asbestos removal expert to ensure your family’s safety and compliance with BC law.