What does asbestos insulation look like

Asbestos insulation typically appears in a few different forms, depending on how it was applied or installed:

Sprayed-on insulation: This is a soft, spongy coating that may look like a rough texture or foam. It often appears grayish or white but can sometimes be light brown or off-white. It was commonly sprayed on ceilings and pipes before the dangers of asbestos were widely known.
Batt or blanket insulation: Asbestos fibers were often woven into thick mats or blankets. This insulation can appear similar to fiberglass batt insulation but with a denser, somewhat crumbly texture. It might be gray, white, or even a yellowish color.
Pipe insulation: Asbestos was frequently used for wrapping pipes, appearing as a thick, fibrous covering. It might look like a rough, textured coating or be in the form of a tightly-wrapped cloth-like material. It can be white, gray, or off-white.
Loose-fill insulation: Sometimes asbestos was used in a loose-fill form, which might resemble small, fluffy granules or a loose, fibrous texture. It would often be found in attics or other hidden spaces.

If you suspect the presence of asbestos insulation in a building, it’s important not to disturb it and to contact a professional for testing and removal.