Michigan Residential Builders License Practice Test

Houses built between which years may potentially have asbestos insulation?

1. 1920 and 1930

2. 1930 and 1950

3. 1950 and 1970

4. 1970 and 1980

The correct answer is: 1930 and 1950

Asbestos insulation was commonly used in the construction industry, particularly from the 1930s through the late 1970s. Homes built between 1930 and 1950 are particularly at risk because this was a period when the use of asbestos in insulation and other building materials became prevalent due to its fire-resistant properties and affordability. During this time, asbestos was not well understood in terms of its health risks, and many builders incorporated it into their construction practices without regard for future consequences. By the late 1970s, awareness of the hazards of asbestos exposure led to a significant decline in its use and increased regulations surrounding its presence in building materials. The other time periods mentioned either fall outside this peak period of asbestos usage or are too recent, considering that by 1970, the use of asbestos began to wane significantly due to increasing health concerns. Thus, identifying homes built between 1930 and 1950 as potentially containing asbestos insulation is backed by historical patterns and regulations related to building materials.