Which type of asbestos is most commonly found in building materials?

Chrysotile, often referred to as white asbestos, is the most commonly found type of asbestos in building materials. It accounts for about 95% of the asbestos used in the United States. This is largely due to its favorable properties, including flexibility, tensile strength, and heat resistance, which made it a popular choice for various applications such as insulation, roofing materials, floor tiles, and cement products. As a result, many older buildings that were constructed before regulations on asbestos use became stringent may contain chrysotile.

In contrast, while amosite (brown asbestos) and crocidolite (blue asbestos) were also used in some building materials, they are less prevalent than chrysotile. Tremolite, on the other hand, typically appears as a contaminant in other products rather than being intentionally used in commercial applications. Thus, chrysotile's widespread use and characteristic features distinguish it as the type most commonly associated with building materials, making it crucial for inspectors to identify and address safely.