Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used commonly in a variety of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire-retardant. Because of its fiber strength and heat resistant properties, asbestos has been used for a wide range of manufactured goods, mostly in building materials, including:

• drywall and joint compound
• plaster
• mud and texture coats
• vinyl floor tiles, sheeting, adhesives
• roofing tars, felts, siding, and shingles
• "transite" panels, siding, countertops, and pipes
• Popcorn ceilings, also known as acoustic ceilings
• fireproofing
• caulk
• gaskets
• packing, a system for sealing a rotating shaft
• interior fire doors
• thermal pipe insulation
• HVAC flexible duct connectors

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed by repair, remodeling or demolition activities, microscopic fibers become airborne and can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause significant health problems.