Ceilings/Asbestos

[lollypop]

Hi Smiler,

We decided to go ahead and buy the house, the vendors agreed to pay to have the ceilings removed by a specialist contractor, Kowhai Coatings. Unfortunately, when we had a building inspection done on the property an issue with high moisture meter readings came up (it wasn't a plaster clad house) so we chose not to continue with the sale. The experience was a benefit though - as soon as I see one of those 'porridge' ceilings now, I immediately add another $3,000+ to the cost of buying.

[Smiler]

Thanks for the update Lollypop.

I was wondering how you were getting on. Good luck with the house search.

[NoelMC]

Asbestos was used until VERY VERY recently (ie 1990's) in vinyl floor tiles, Artex and in manmade roof slates. Its use was continued to be allowed as it is encasulated within the material.

As has been said the vast majority of pre 1970/80 houses WILL contain an amount of asbestos either in Asbestos board as soffit and barge boards or in corrugated roof sheets.

On other health matters I do worry about MDF, it off gases Formaldehyde, which is a known irritant, causes asthma, and may be cancerous.
Its dust is also being studied as it may also be harmful when inhaled.

Deep breath and hold.........................................