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Sure_Comparison6978 t1_ixw3f24 wrote

I’d say lead paint is less likely to be a concern in Columbia compared to other parts of Maryland, as many of the homes here are relatively newer compared to this historic homes which are far more common outside of Columbia. I would be more concerned about asbestos, which can be easily found in the popcorn ceilings and linoleum floors (both found in typical 70’s era homes, which are prevalent in Columbia).

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BalancingAct247 OP t1_ixwv05t wrote

Shoot, that’s scary, too! How would I even know if the house had asbestos?

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FineWinePaperCup t1_ixx51fu wrote

For houses in the 60s & 70s, you’d mostly see it in 9x9 vinyl tile and the mastic (look for black) underneath it. The good news is as long as the tile and mastics are breaking up, turning into dust (“friable” is the term) then you can just encapsulated it (put something else on top).

You probably aren’t going to see asbestos insulation on pipes in this era home. You might see asbestos in siding, I don’t know if it’s common in Columbia, but we had it on a house in Havre de Grace. Again, as long as it’s not crumbling, encapsulating it with vinyl is generally considered ok.

Sometimes it can be found in popcorn ceiling. I haven’t heard of it locally, but it can be a problem.

But, you home inspector will point out anything questionable. You can have it tested if you are worried.

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