Transite is a cementous material that contains asbestos which deteriorates over time. As the transite deteriorates, asbestos fibers can be released from the interior of the pipe into the drinking water flowing through the pipe. Asbestos floor tile in a room does not mean that you are being exposed to asbestos. The asbestos must be released from the floor tile and become airborne to become a hazard. There is no requirement to remove asbestos from a facility unless it is in a poor condition where the asbestos fibers may be released.
Asbestos is present in many common building materials used in private homes and in public buildings.
An asbestos containing product can not be determined by sight. The only way to determine if asbestos is definitely present in a material is through microscopic analysis by an approved laboratory. The best way to get a smooth finish is to sand the glue off the wood. However, if there is asbestos in the glue, sanding it will cause the asbestos to become airborne, thus contaminating the entire house. Normally sheetrock does not contain asbestos, but the joint compound used on the seams between the pieces of sheetrock can contain asbestos.