Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were used in the building industry for decades before their ban in 1999. Asbestos was even used in roofing components, so for those who live in older properties, its associated health risks are often still a concern.

But how can you tell if your roofline has asbestos? And is an asbestos roof removal the right thing to do? Let’s take a look.

Was asbestos used in roofing?

Yes, asbestos was commonly used in roofing materials thanks to its beneficial properties like heat resistance, insulation and strength. Roofing products such as tiles, corrugated sheets and roofline soffits may have asbestos in them, particularly in buildings constructed before the late nineties when asbestos use was banned in the UK.

Unfortunately, as asbestos was often mixed with other products to create different roofing materials, it can be challenging to identify it without official testing.

What do asbestos soffits look like?

Do you suspect you have asbestos soffits? This roof feature is attached to fascia boards, forming the underside of the overhangs or eaves. Asbestos-containing soffits may appear similar to non-asbestos soffits, making visual identification difficult.

Professional asbestos surveys and testing are advised to conclude the presence of asbestos in soffits and other roofing materials. Sampling can also confirm the condition and amount of asbestos within a material via lab analysis.

Should you remove an asbestos roofline?

Deciding whether to remove an asbestos roofline depends on its condition, any safety concerns you have and plans to alter or renovate the structure. If your roof isn’t deteriorating or damaged, asbestos encapsulation techniques may be considered to prevent fibre release.

However, if your roofline is in disrepair or you’re planning a renovation, asbestos removal may be the best and safest option to eliminate the risk of asbestos exposure.

How do you safely remove and dispose of a roof containing asbestos?

Asbestos roof removals require careful planning and compliance with safety regulations to negate exposure risks. This means hiring an experienced contractor offering specialist asbestos roof removals. They’ll stick to strict protocols about the protective clothing they wear and how the asbestos is removed and disposed of.

Additionally, correct asbestos disposal is critical to stop environmental contamination and air leak risks. Asbestos roof waste must be taken and disposed of in line with local authority recommendations, which are made in accordance with Environment Agency advice.

If the asbestos is on your property, you must make sure you use a licensed contractor, or you could be liable if the asbestos isn’t properly disposed of.

Do you think you have an asbestos roofline? Contact our team

If you need help with asbestos sampling or asbestos roof removal, speak to us today. Goodbye Asbestos operates across London, Surrey and the Home Counties, including Harrow and Hartley Wintney.

If you’d like a free quote, please contact us.