Last Updated on July 11, 2024 by Dan

What is an asbestos roof?

An asbestos roof is made from asbestos cement – a mixture of cement and asbestos.

The asbestos fibres make up about 10-15% of the total product, forming a hard material, and were added to the cement to reinforce it.

Chrysotile (white asbestos) is the asbestos mineral that was most commonly used in the manufacture of asbestos roof sheets and products before the asbestos regulations and ban came into effect in the UK in the year 2000.

Asbestos cement was used due it’s excellent insulation, fireproofing and weatherproof properties.

Asbestos roofing can be frequently found in the form of panels, gutters, insulation, shingles, downpipes, felt, asphalt or the entire roof itself.

You will find asbestos materials on the roof of sheds, garages and farm buildings.

If you suspect asbestos containing materials are present in your roof, you should contact a licensed asbestos removal company. The images below will help you to identify what asbestos materials look like:-

Are asbestos roofs safe?

Problems with asbestos roofing, such as corrugated roofing sheets, can occur as the cement deteriorates with age and consequently becomes more brittle, releasing asbestos fibres.

This creates a greater risk of asbestos dust or the asbestos becoming exposed and loose which puts people at greater risk from asbestos exposure.

Being exposed to asbestos can lead to developing an asbestos related diseases in later life.

However, as the harmful asbestos fibres only account for approximately 10% of the composition of asbestos products, this means that asbestos roofing materials are considered to be a low risk to human health.

How long does this type of roof last?

The lifetime of an asbestos roof will depend on the quality and thickness of the roof material.

Thinner asbestos roofing sheets will usually last around 50 to 60 years.

Thicker roofing sheets measuring about a quarter of an inch thick will typically last 70 to 85 years.

How much does it cost to remove?

The overall cost of asbestos removal from a asbestos roof will depend on the quantity that is to be removed.

However, as a general guide, for asbestos garage roof removal – pricing starts around £380 or £680 if including the sides.

The asbestos removal cost for a double garage roof starts from £750 or £1800 if including sides.

The cost of asbestos removal for garage roof insulation ceiling boards starts at around £1350.

Can I remove asbestos roofing myself?

It is essential that asbestos containing materials are removed and asbestos waste is disposed of in the correct manner.

The best way to do this is to use an asbestos removal company – licensed contractor.

On no account should you attempt to remove asbestos coatings yourself.

However, if you wish to remove the asbestos garage roof yourself, then you are permitted to do so as cement bonded asbestos found in roof sheets is the only asbestos material which can be removed by a house holder. 

There are strict guidelines though on how you should do this in order to prevent asbestos contamination.

Please refer to the full HSE guidance.

Did you find this article interesting?  Then check out our other interesting articles below.

For all your asbestos training needs call us on 0161 761 4424 or visit https://www.armcoasbestostraining.co.uk/asbestos-training-courses/ to book an asbestos training course.

Need an asbestos survey or a refurbishment/demolition survey? Then contact us on 0161 763 3727 or by visiting our sister site https://www.armco.org.uk/

Latest News...

What is Asbestosis?

July 11, 2024Last Updated on July 11, 2024 by Dan Asbestosis is a serious health condition that has profound implications for those who have been exposed to asbestos. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of asbestosis, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention. Understanding this disease is crucial, particularly for individuals working in environments […] [...] Read more...

Who Does the Control of Asbestos Regulations Apply To?

May 21, 2024Last Updated on June 11, 2024 by max Asbestos, a naturally occurring group of minerals known for its fire-resistant properties, was once widely used in construction materials across the UK. However, due to the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure, its use was banned in 1999. Yet, the legacy of asbestos remains, posing a […] [...] Read more...

The Role of Asbestos Surveys in Real Estate Transactions

March 14, 2024Last Updated on March 18, 2024 by max Asbestos, a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals, was once hailed for its versatility and used extensively in the construction industry for its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, it has since been revealed that asbestos poses significant health risks, primarily causing lung diseases, including asbestosis and mesothelioma, […] [...] Read more...

The Future Of Asbestos Abatement: Emerging Technologies & Methods

December 14, 2023Last Updated on February 13, 2024 by Dan The dangers of asbestos are well known, especially the removal of asbestos from buildings. The risk of causing diseases like lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma from inhaling asbestos dust remains high. Different methods are in use for removing asbestos to safeguard everyone. But are there newer and […] [...] Read more...

The Impact of Practical Hands-on Training in Asbestos Management

October 31, 2023Last Updated on February 13, 2024 by Dan In the realm of asbestos management, nothing can replace the value of practical hands-on training. The unique challenges posed by this hazardous material necessitate a robust and practical training approach to ensure the safety and efficiency of all asbestos management activities. This article explores the profound impact […] [...] Read more...

The Legal Implications of Improper Asbestos Removal

October 31, 2023Last Updated on October 31, 2023 by dagan2021 Asbestos, a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals, was once widely used in the construction industry due to its insulating properties and resistance to fire. However, by the late 20th century, its deleterious health effects were undeniable, leading to its ban in many countries including the UK. […] [...] Read more...

Published Jun 04, 2019