Asbestos Roof Replacement: Why Removal Could Be Your Best Option
Posted on: 12 June 2018
Asbestos was one of the best building materials in the past for a range of reasons. Among other desirable properties, it was durable, energy efficient and fireproof. However, it was discovered that disturbing asbestos releases asbestos fibres that can cause health issues when inhaled. That led to the phasing out of the material in building and construction. If you have an older home, however, it's not uncommon to still find asbestos in some parts. One of the areas you may find asbestos is your roof. If part or even the whole of your roof is comprised of asbestos, you may want to consider replacement. Asbestos roof replacement may involve roof repairs, over-roofing or roof removal, but here are reasons why removal may be the best option.
Repair May Be Impractical
If your asbestos roof is damaged, repairing it may not work, and even if it does, it won't yield the best results. First, it is worth noting that asbestos is usually not harmful until it's disturbed. Repairing asbestos shingles or tiles will undoubtedly involve pulling or nailing them to your roof framing, and this constitutes disturbance. Also, since asbestos has been phased out, you won't find a replacement for the damaged shingles anywhere.
Over-Roofing May Be Cheap Upfront, But It's Costly in The Long Run
It is usually not a requirement to remove your asbestos roof. In fact, it's often recommended that you don't interfere with asbestos that's in good condition. However, since the roof is usually subjected to a range of outdoor elements, your asbestos roof may suffer some damage down the line. To prevent any health-related issues that may result from the disturbance caused by the damage, you can consider over-roofing. Otherwise known as over-cladding, this process involves internally and externally covering the entire roof with a specialised material that will keep any asbestos fibres contained inside. Compared to replacing the entire roof, this is usually a cost-effective option. However, it may cost you more down the line when it comes to maintenance. The cladding material used may not be as sturdy as most roofing materials, which means repairs may be required quite often.
If you consider removal, an inspection will have to be conducted to evaluate the condition of the asbestos. The inspection should be done by a licensed asbestos professional because of the dangers involved. You cannot undertake the project on your own unless you are licensed. The inspector will then propose the best possible ways to deal with the material. You may also need to obtain a permit from your local council for the project, so keep that in mind.
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