Kaylo Block
Kaylo was a popular brand of insulation materials that were produced by Owens Corning between 1953 and 1973. During these two decades, several different types of insulating products were made, such as a thick sheet that was known as the Kaylo Block. Like all of their products, the block contained a mineral that provided it with many beneficial attributes. The mineral was asbestos, and it helped make their goods stronger, more economical, able to withstand intense cold or heat, and resistant to fire.
Asbestos was found in great abundance in deposits all over America, so manufacturers bought it by the ton for the industrial and construction based merchandise they produced. As advantageous as this mineral was, by the 1970's a discovery was made that led to an eventual ban of the material. The problem was that asbestos is extremely toxic. Over time, it can cause mesothelioma, a type of cancer that has a low survival rate. Mesothelioma, including pericardial mesothelioma, is sometimes not detected until the latter stages because of the long latency period. As a result a mesothelioma prognosis is often not favorable and the life expectancy for someone diagnosed with the disease is typically short. There are a number of famous mesothelioma cancer clinics that continue to research and provide advanced treatment such as surgery, mesothelioma radiation and chemotherapy. The doctors at these centers, like Dr. David Sugarbaker are skilled at assessing patient needs and determining the optimal course of treatment. For more information, browse our mesothelioma treatment guide or visit our mesothelioma resource center.
To their credit, Owens Corning discontinued the Kaylo brand and stopped producing insulation materials with this hazardous substance. Sadly, not every company that used asbestos did the same. Other manufacturers continued to use it to the detriment of the general public.
Lawsuits began to be filed by people who had been made ill as a direct result of exposure to Kaylo Block by 1969. The number of personal injury claims continued to grow, and by 2003 Owens Corning executives opted to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. This freed them from debt, but they were still responsible to provide monetary compensation for the people who were injured by their insulation products. A trust fund was established to follow through with this task, and all ongoing and new claims are assessed by the trustees.
Kaylo Block has not been produced since the early 1970's, but there may still be some of it in older buildings or homes. Anyone who comes across this type of insulation should stay clear of it, and contact a certified professional that is qualified to remove and dispose of this hazardous material. To attempt to do so on your own could come with dire and even deadly consequences.
If you were among those who were harmed by Kaylo Block, you may be entitled to some compensation from the trust fund. Learn more about your legal rights in our informational kit that can be ordered online. It contains all the facts and details you need, and is free to the public.
