Asbestos, once praised for its fire resistance and strength, is now recognized as a serious health hazard. Yet despite being heavily regulated, many homeowners, contractors, and property managers across New Mexico still wonder: Is asbestos still used today? The short answer is yes—in limited ways—but the real risk often lies in older buildings that still contain asbestos-laced materials. If you’re living or working in an older home or commercial property in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or anywhere across the state, this guide is for you.
A Brief History of Asbestos in New Mexico Homes
In areas like Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Las Cruces, many homes and buildings were built before 1980—when asbestos use was at its peak. From pipe insulation and ceiling tiles to roofing shingles and flooring adhesives, asbestos was commonly used in construction materials throughout the state. Although federal restrictions began in the 1970s, asbestos has never been completely banned in the U.S., and buildings across New Mexico still contain it today.
Is Asbestos Still Found in Modern Materials?
While most new homes in New Mexico are built with safer alternatives, asbestos is still allowed in certain products under U.S. law, including:
- Automotive parts like brake pads and clutches
- Industrial applications like chlorine production
- Imported building materials from countries with weaker regulations
If you’re remodeling an older home in the North Valley or restoring a historic adobe in Santa Fe, you may unknowingly encounter asbestos in:
- Popcorn ceilings
- Sheet vinyl flooring
- HVAC duct insulation
- Roof underlayment and felt
- Textured wall coatings
These materials become dangerous when disturbed, releasing fine asbestos fibers into the air.
Local Concerns: Imported Materials and DIY Renovations
In recent years, homeowners in New Mexico have taken on more DIY projects, especially during the pandemic era. Unfortunately, many aren’t aware that materials purchased from discount suppliers or online retailers may contain asbestos-based components, particularly if they’re manufactured overseas. That’s why pre-renovation asbestos testing is essential for any older property.
At Asbestos Experts, we’ve seen cases in Corrales and Los Lunas where imported tile mastic and pipe wrap tested positive for asbestos—reminding us that even newer-looking materials aren’t always safe.
Regulations You Need to Know in New Mexico
Although the EPA and OSHA regulate asbestos at the federal level, New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) also enforces strict regulations for asbestos inspection, abatement, and disposal. Homeowners and contractors performing renovations that may disturb asbestos must:
- Use licensed asbestos inspectors and abatement professionals
- File notification with NMED for certain projects
- Follow strict air quality and safety guidelines
Failure to comply can result in steep fines—and more importantly, dangerous exposure to you and your family.
Health Risks for New Mexico Residents
Whether you live in a mid-century home in Nob Hill or a pre-1980 commercial building in Downtown Albuquerque, asbestos exposure poses serious long-term health risks, including:
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
- Lung cancer
- Chronic respiratory issues
These conditions may not appear for decades after exposure, making early detection and safe removal critical.
Real Cases in Our Community
We’ve worked with homeowners across the state who didn’t know their homes contained asbestos until they started renovations. In one case in the UNM area, a homeowner began scraping popcorn ceilings without testing, releasing asbestos fibers throughout the home. In another case in Santa Fe, a property manager discovered asbestos during routine HVAC maintenance.
In both cases, Asbestos Experts stepped in to test, contain, and safely remove the materials, ensuring the spaces were safe to reoccupy.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Asbestos?
- Stop work immediately if you discover suspicious materials.
- Call Asbestos Experts—we’re certified, insured, and based right here in New Mexico.
- Schedule a professional inspection and testing. We use lab-certified analysis to identify asbestos in your building.
- Follow through with licensed abatement. We handle everything from containment and removal to disposal—meeting all local and federal regulations.
Why Choose Asbestos Experts?
As a locally owned and operated New Mexico business, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners, schools, and commercial clients navigate asbestos issues safely. Our team understands the unique housing stock of the region—from adobe ranch homes to 1970s subdivisions—and we know where asbestos is most commonly found.
When you choose Asbestos Experts, you get:
- Local knowledge of NM building materials
- Licensed asbestos inspectors and abatement professionals
- Up-to-date compliance with New Mexico regulations
- Transparent pricing and reliable service
- Peace of mind that your family or tenants are safe
Final Thoughts
Asbestos might feel like a problem of the past, but here in New Mexico, it’s still very much present—especially in homes and buildings built before the 1980s. Whether you’re renovating a fixer-upper in Albuquerque or managing properties in Santa Fe, don’t risk your health or your investment.
Let the local professionals at Asbestos Experts help you test, identify, and safely remove asbestos-containing materials.
Worried about asbestos in your home or building?
Contact us today for a certified inspection or abatement quote. Proudly serving Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Rio Rancho, and beyond.