Master Builders Australia has issued a timely warning to tradies and DIY enthusiasts ahead of the busy summer renovation season, reminding homeowners of the dangers lurking behind the walls, ceilings, and floors of older homes.
As part of National Asbestos Awareness Week, the nation’s peak building and construction association has placed the spotlight firmly on the hidden hazards of asbestos, particularly in ageing properties.
Originally a widely used material, asbestos was once celebrated for its versatility and durability. It now represents one of the most significant health threats to those working and operating in the building and construction space.
Master Builders Chief Executive Denita Wawn urges DIY lovers and tradies alike to take a moment to assess the risks before picking up their tools or diving into any DIY projects this summer.
“If your home was built before 1990, there’s a good chance it contains asbestos,” she warned.
“Asbestos was used in over 3,000 building products, and it can show up inside and outside—in floors, walls, ceilings, eaves, pipes, and roofs.”
“Most of those products are 30 to 100 years old, and the older they become, the more likely they are to release harmful asbestos fibres into the air if disturbed.
Last week, Build-it reported on the alarming risks associated with ageing asbestos, which becomes increasingly brittle over time.
As weather, moisture, and temperature fluctuations take their toll, these older asbestos-containing materials can start to crumble, increasing the likelihood of releasing microscopic fibres into the air when disturbed.
These fibres, when inhaled, pose a serious risk of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases. Tragically, 4,000 Australians lose their lives to these diseases each year, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and caution.
Common DIY project holds high risk
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is underestimating where asbestos might be hiding.
Its often found in garages, garden sheds, fences, and even beneath floor tiles. Outdoor areas can be especially hazardous during summer as heat causes materials to expand and weaken further.
Ms. Wawn pointed to the growing popularity of certain DIY projects that pose increased dangers, including installing security cameras, sensor lights, and CCTV systems, which have become a major concern.
By drilling blindly into older walls, asbestos fibres can be released. When not properly controlled, this can lead to serious health issues from even the lowest levels of exposure, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
“While it’s tempting to do DIY projects to save money, the consequences can be deadly.
“You can’t tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it; if you think a material might contain asbestos, you should err on the side of caution and call a professional to find out for sure.
“Before you start any DIY projects, contact your local Master Builders Association to find a builder or accredited asbestos removalist.
The Australian Government’s Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency has many resources available to help homeowners understand the risks and take proper precautions.
Meanwhile, concerned homeowners can contact their local Master Builders Associations, which will connect them with licensed builders and asbestos removalists to ensure projects are carried out safely.
