Asbestos is a mineral that was widely used in building construction throughout much of the 20th century due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties, as well as its affordability. However, it was later discovered to have serious health implications, as exposure to asbestos fibers can cause a range of lung diseases, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

Asbestos was used in a variety of building materials, including insulation, flooring, roofing, and cement. Many buildings constructed before 2000 may contain asbestos-containing materials, which must be removed by a professional asbestos removal company in order to minimize the risk of exposure to these dangerous fibers.