FYI Vintage


It’s amazing what a little research about asbestos can dig up. In this case, a really old video about how prevalent asbestos was during the heyday of American home construction. This one is entitled, “The Story of Modern Sidewalls for the Homes of America.” It was made in 1952 and produced by the Asbestos-Cement Products Association, and it’s quite a fascinating piece of history when viewed through the prism of hindsight.
As we know now, asbestos is anything but benign. It is highly toxic, a cause of mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases and cancers. Asbestos exposure is something to be avoided unless proper protections (clothing and ventilation) are in place.
Much of this video is about the “beauty and functionality” of home siding made with asbestos and includes an interview with Norman Denny, then-vice president of materials for Levitt & Sons, builders in Levittown, New York. “From New York to Los Angeles, from Miami to Seattle; in every climate and every community, this new sidewall has brought better homes,” the narrator says. As strange as this seems, though, this kind of construction is quite normal for American building in the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s. That is, right up until regulations hit asbestos industries.
Small note -- where's the building paper Mr. GC?
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2 comments:

  1. AnonymousJuly 11, 2012 at 12:36 AM

    I love your web page. Do you design Vintage homes? Because I love that your homes are so inviting and back to basics. I'm so into that life style. Maybe one day I'll get you to design me a home. Love what you do. You are an inspiration. Virginia

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    1. UnknownJuly 11, 2012 at 9:48 AM

      Hello Virginia, Thank you for such kind words! That is exactly what I aim to do – going back to the basics with a simple life. I am tackling a range of vintage styles so please check back for more. Thank you for inspiring me and I hope we do get to work together in the future.

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