Masonry Fill

Prior to the banning of asbestos in the 1970s, asbestos was used in various construction products, including masonry fill, an insulating compound poured between cinder blocks in places such as basements. Asbestos was typically used in this substance because of its heat-resistant, durable, and inexpensive properties.

Exposure to asbestos from masonry fill does not occur when the product has dried and is intact. However, when the masonry fill is broken, asbestos fibers can be released into the air and if inhaled can cause various health problems. The worst of these conditions is mesothelioma, a cancer that's only known cause is asbestos exposure.

Most patients diagnosed with this disease do not face a favorable prognosis, as symptoms do not begin to show until 30 to 40 years after asbestos exposure has taken place. By this time, the cancer has moved to the later, incurable stages. However, mesothelioma symptoms to look out for if you believe you have been exposed to asbestos through masonry fill are:

• Persistent dry cough
• Abdominal or chest pain
• Difficulty in swallowing and/or breathing
• Unexplained weight loss

If you or someone you know has been exposed to asbestos as a result of handling or being involved with Masonry Fill, and if you think such exposure may have caused you or your loved one to become ill with mesothelioma or any other form of asbestos related disease, please contact the lawyers at Clapper, Patti Schweizer & Mason for more information.