The only way to truly know if your home has asbestos is by hiring a professional to come check it out. The mineral fibers are only observable under a microscope, making it necessary to have samples collected and tested to find out.
If you think your home could have asbestos, leave it alone, states the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Don’t try to remove it yourself. When the fibers enter the air, they can also enter your lungs — which is dangerous.
One more important note: If you’re thinking about remodeling your home, the CPSC recommends that you find out if there’s asbestos in your home before you begin your projects.