Asbestos is a natural mineral that was widely used in building materials between the 1950s and 1980s. It was popular for its strong and durable properties, as well as its heat and fire-resistant nature. However, it was later discovered that asbestos can cause serious health problems when inhaled, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Even a small exposure to asbestos can be harmful, so it's important to identify and manage any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your property.