What is a common building material that may contain asbestos?

Insulation is indeed a common building material that may contain asbestos. Asbestos was widely used in insulation products due to its heat-resistant properties and ability to prevent fire. Types of insulation that might contain asbestos include pipe insulation, attic insulation (often referred to as vermiculite), and various types of spray-applied insulation.

While other building materials, such as cement, can also potentially contain asbestos (as in certain types of composite materials), insulation remains one of the most prevalent sources of asbestos exposure in older buildings. Understanding the context of materials typically associated with asbestos helps in identification during inspections and assessments, particularly in structures built before the late 1970s when asbestos use began to decline significantly.