Many people have misconceptions about asbestos, one of the most common being that it has a single, recognisable appearance. Unfortunately, asbestos remains prevalent in older properties because it isn't always easy to identify on-site.

Understanding what asbestos looks like is crucial. Not only does it help prevent accidental exposure, but it also ensures you can bring in professionals to remove it before it starts to degrade and become hazardous

So, what does asbestos look like? Read on for a detailed breakdown of its characteristics, its appearance in different materials, and what to do if you suspect its presence on your property.

What does asbestos look like?

In its raw form, asbestos consists of a cluster of mineral fibres. There are several types, but the three most common in New Zealand are blue, white, and brown asbestos. White asbestos, or chrysotile, was the most widely used. It appears thin, white, fibrous strands that can flake off easily in its raw state.

However, you're unlikely to find raw asbestos on your property. Between the 1930s and 1980s, asbestos was imported into New Zealand and processed into various construction materials. These asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were used extensively in insulation, ceiling tiles, and other building components. ACMs are still present in many properties built or renovated before 2000.

Since raw asbestos is rarely encountered, it's essential to recognise ACMs and assess whether they might be present in your home or workplace.

How can you spot asbestos-containing materials?

If asbestos isn't typically found in its raw form, how can property owners identify it? The key is knowing which materials will likely contain asbestos and what they look like.

Many materials in New Zealand may contain asbestos. A WorkSafe Asbestos guide offers comprehensive list, but some of the most common include:

Insulation
Ceiling tiles
Fireproof textiles
Cement sheeting
Vinyl flooring

Below, we explore two of the most common asbestos-containing materials and how to recognise them.

What does asbestos wall insulation look like?

Unlike modern insulation, which is often pink or yellow, asbestos-containing insulation has distinct characteristics. It was heat-treated, giving it an unusual accordion-like texture and silvery-grey appearance.

If you encounter insulation that fits this description, do not touch or disturb it. Asbestos fibres can become airborne when disturbed, posing a significant health risk. Instead, keep your distance and seek professional assessment.

How to recognise asbestos ceiling tiles?

Popcorn ceilings and other textured ceiling sprays applied before the 2000s may contain asbestos but are not the only ceiling materials of concern. The best way to determine whether your ceiling tiles contain asbestos is to check your property's records for the manufacturer and production date. If the manufacturer is known to have used asbestos, it's best to have the tiles professionally tested.

If records aren't available, visually inspect the tiles (without disturbing them). Asbestos-containing ceiling tiles are often:

Light in colour
Slightly textured
Powdery in appearance

If your ceiling tiles match this description, consult an asbestos identification specialist before taking action.

What to do if you suspect asbestos

There is no simple answer to the question, "What does asbestos look like?" Its appearance varies depending on the material, the era in which it was used, and how it was processed. However, certain features—such as texture, colour, and manufacturing history—can provide clues.

If you suspect a material in your property contains asbestos, do not attempt to confirm it visually or disturb it in any way. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release harmful fibres into the air, increasing the risk of inhalation and long-term health complications.

Instead, always seek professional assistance. Asbestos specialists can safely sample and test the material, confirming whether asbestos is present and advising on the best course of action.

Talk to the asbestos removal specialists at Agility.

Are you concerned that your property may contain asbestos? We provide asbestos sampling and removal services in the Wellington, Wairarapa, and Manawatū regions. Get in touch with the expert team at Agility to arrange a free on-site evaluation.

What Does Asbestos Look Like?