When was the use of asbestos in construction most prevalent?

The use of asbestos in construction reached its peak from the early 1900s to the 1970s. This time frame is significant because asbestos was widely recognized during this period for its fire-resistant properties, durability, and insulating capabilities, making it a popular choice in a variety of building materials, including insulation, roofing, flooring, and siding.

Regulatory awareness and concerns about the health risks associated with asbestos exposure began to emerge in the 1970s, leading to increased restrictions and the eventual decline in its use. In the earlier decades, the lack of understanding regarding asbestos-related health hazards contributed to its widespread application in construction without the protective measures that would later become standard.

The later time frames mentioned in the other choices indicate a period of decreasing use due to regulatory changes and growing awareness of the health risks, which makes them less representative of the peak usage of asbestos in construction. Thus, the early 1900s to the 1970s captures the period when asbestos use was most extensive.