Asbestos in Akron's Older Homes Built Before 1980

Approximately 78% of Akron homes were built before 1980, the year asbestos use in residential construction began its steep decline. Akron's history as the Rubber City means its housing stock is older than the national average: entire neighborhoods went up quickly between 1910 and 1950 to house workers from Goodyear, Firestone, and BF Goodrich, and asbestos products were used generously in nearly all of them.

Where Asbestos Hides in Akron Homes by Era

1900-1940: Worker Housing & Craftsman Homes

In neighborhoods like North Hill, Kenmore, Firestone Park, and Goodyear Heights, expect asbestos in boiler and pipe insulation, cement siding shingles, roofing, and original 9x9 floor tile added in later updates.

1940-1960: Post-War Expansion

Homes in Wallhaven, West Akron, and Ellet commonly contain vinyl asbestos floor tile, vermiculite attic insulation, asbestos cement siding, and duct insulation tape.

1960-1980: Late Construction

Even newer ranches and split-levels frequently contain popcorn ceilings, joint compound, and sheet flooring with asbestos backing.

The Top 6 Asbestos Materials We Find in Akron

• Popcorn (textured) ceilings installed before 1980
• 9x9 and 12x12 vinyl floor tiles and black mastic
• Heating pipe and boiler insulation in basements
• Vermiculite (Zonolite) attic insulation
• Asbestos cement siding and roof shingles
• Duct wrap, furnace gaskets, and flue insulation

What Akron Homeowners Should Do

If materials are intact: asbestos in good condition can often be left in place and monitored. If you're renovating, or materials are damaged: get testing first — Ohio law requires proper abatement before renovation or demolition disturbs asbestos-containing materials. Disturbing them without containment puts your family at risk and can contaminate the entire home.