Asbestos was all-too widely used in construction, including garage roofs, from the 1950s due to its durability, fire resistance, and affordability. However, following its ban in the UK in 1999 due to severe health risks, identifying and managing asbestos has become crucial for homeowners. If you suspect your garage roof might contain asbestos, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you identify it and understand your next steps, including garage roof replacement options.
Spotting an Asbestos Garage Roof
1. How Old is the Garage Roof?
The age of your garage roof is a crucial factor in determining the likelihood of asbestos. If your garage was constructed or last refurbished between the 1950s and 1990s, there’s a significant chance the roof contains asbestos. During this period, asbestos cement sheets were a common choice for garage roofing and shed roofs due to their low cost and practicality.
Construction Dates
Garages built before 1950 are less likely to contain asbestos, as its widespread use in construction peaked later. Post-2000 garages are unlikely to have asbestos, as the UK government banned its’ use in 1999.
Maintenance History
Even if your garage predates the 1950s, any refurbishment or upgrades during the asbestos era might have introduced asbestos-containing materials.
Local Knowledge
Check local property records or consult neighbours to find out if asbestos was a common roofing material in your area during this time.
2. How Does the Roof Look?
Asbestos garage roofs often display certain physical characteristics that can help you identify them.
Corrugated Sheets:
One of the most common forms of asbestos garage roofs is corrugated sheets. These were lightweight, durable, and affordable, making them a popular choice. They can look very similar to less hazardous cement fibre sheets, which makes identifying them challenging.
Colour:
- Initially, asbestos cement sheets are grey or off-white.
- Over time, they weather to a dull, textured surface due to exposure to the elements.
- Stains, discoloration, or moss growth may also appear on older asbestos roofs.
Fibrous Appearance:
- Damaged or broken sections may reveal a fibrous texture, with frayed edges when sheets are damaged.
- Be cautious: disturbing these fibres can release dangerous asbestos particles into the air.
- Non-asbestos cement sheets are harder and more uniform, and do not release fine fibres in the same way.
Surface Condition:
- Asbestos cement sheets are generally hard and brittle.
- Cracks, breaks, or crumbling edges may indicate deterioration, increasing the risk of fibre release.
3. Is There Any Labelling?
In some cases, asbestos sheets were marked with identifying labels or codes. Common labels might include phrases like “Contains Asbestos” or specific product codes referencing asbestos.
Examples of Asbestos Roofing Product Codes and Labels:
- Brand Names:
- ETERNIT – A major manufacturer of asbestos-cement roofing sheets. Products are often stamped with “Eternit” or their logo. Profile codes like Big Six and Double Six were commonly associated with their roofing sheets.
- BRITISH EVERITE – Another common brand for asbestos roofing products – stamps or embossing with “Everite” or related branding.
- TURNERS ASBESTOS CEMENT – Specific to Turners, a notable manufacturer – products marked with “Turners Asbestos Cement” or variations.
- Product Codes:
- AC – Stands for Asbestos Cement.
- A6 – Denotes a specific asbestos cement profile type.
- BS 114 – Refers to the British Standard for asbestos-cement sheeting.
- Profile and Sheet Type:
- Big Six – A popular corrugated profile name for asbestos cement roofing sheets.
- Standard – Often used generically to refer to the most common profiles.
- Phrases or Warnings:
- “Contains Asbestos” – Found on some sheets, though rare.
- “Chrysotile Asbestos” – Specific reference to the type of asbestos in the product.
Many of these markings may have faded, been covered by paint, or worn off due to weather exposure. If markings are unclear, it’s safest to treat the material as asbestos-containing until verified by testing. If you are handling or inspecting roofing products, always prioritise safety and consult with asbestos specialists when in doubt.
- Absence of Labels: Never assume your roof is asbestos-free simply because no label is visible. Many older installations lack clear markings.
- Professional Expertise: A trained asbestos surveyor may recognise subtle identifiers on materials that are not obvious to untrained individuals.
4. Reach Out to Asbestos Professionals
The only reliable way to confirm whether your garage roof contains asbestos is by consulting licensed asbestos professionals. Certified surveyors, like those at Excel Asbestos, are trained to identify and safely assess asbestos-containing materials without putting your health or safety at risk. Here’s why professional involvement is essential:
Expert Assessment:
- Certified asbestos surveyors can visually identify asbestos-containing materials and understand their risks based on their extensive training and experience.
- They can determine whether your garage roof is safe to leave intact or if removal and replacement are necessary.
Compliance with Regulations:
- Handling asbestos improperly can violate UK laws, such as the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
- Professionals ensure that any asbestos-related work complies fully with legal requirements.
Safety and Precision:
- Professionals use specialised tools and techniques to minimise the risk of asbestos fibre release during assessments.
- They employ safety measures that protect your home environment and reduce the risk of contamination.
Customised Solutions:
- Depending on the condition of your garage roof, experts can advise whether repair or full replacement is the best course of action.
- They provide detailed plans for removal and replacement, tailored to your property’s needs.
Additional Considerations
- Roof Accessories: Check associated features like guttering, flashing, or soffits, as these may also contain asbestos.
- Neighbouring Properties: If other homes in your area have asbestos garage roofs, it increases the likelihood that yours does too.
- Environmental Wear: Older asbestos roofs exposed to harsh weather conditions may deteriorate faster, increasing the risk of fibre release.
Options for Managing an Asbestos Garage Roof
1. Garage Roof Replacement
If your garage roof contains asbestos, replacement is often the safest and most practical solution. Modern roofing materials like metal, polycarbonate, or non-asbestos fibre cement are safer and more durable.
Benefits of Replacing a Corrugated Garage Roof:
- Enhanced safety
- Improved insulation and weather resistance
- Increased property value
2. Asbestos Garage Roof Removal
Removal of asbestos garage roofs should always be handled by licensed professionals. DIY removal is illegal and unsafe due to the health risks of handling asbestos without proper equipment.
Steps in Professional Removal:
- Careful dismantling to prevent fibre release.
- Safe containment and transport of asbestos materials.
- Proper disposal in licensed asbestos waste facilities.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you suspect your garage roof contains asbestos, don’t delay. Here’s when to act:
- Visible cracks or damage
- Leaking roof sections
- Planning to replace or refurbish your garage roof
Avoid handling asbestos materials yourself. Instead, consult Excel Asbestos for safe removal and replacement services.
FAQs
What should I do if I suspect my garage roof contains asbestos?
If you suspect your garage roof contains asbestos, avoid disturbing the material. Contact a licensed asbestos professional, such as Excel Asbestos, for an inspection and advice on next steps.
Is an undamaged asbestos garage roof safe?
Generally, undamaged asbestos garage roofs pose minimal risk as long as the material remains intact. However, regular monitoring is crucial to ensure no damage occurs over time.
Can I remove an asbestos garage roof myself?
No. DIY asbestos removal is unsafe and illegal in the UK. Licensed professionals must handle asbestos to ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards.
How can I identify asbestos in my garage roof?
Asbestos garage roofs often have characteristics like corrugated cement sheets, grey or off-white colour, and a fibrous texture if damaged. However, professional assessment is necessary for confirmation.
How much does asbestos garage roof removal cost?
The cost of asbestos garage roof removal varies based on size, condition, and location. Typically, prices range between £600 and £1,200. Contact Excel Asbestos for a personalised quote.
Can I replace an asbestos garage roof with a modern material?
Yes, modern roofing materials like metal, polycarbonate, or non-asbestos fibre cement are safe and durable options for replacing asbestos garage roofs.
What are the health risks of asbestos exposure?
Inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause severe illnesses, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. These risks underscore the importance of safe handling and removal.
How long does asbestos removal take?
The time required for asbestos removal depends on the size and complexity of the project. For a standard garage roof, removal usually takes one to two days.
Do all garages built before 2000 contain asbestos?
Not all garages built before 2000 contain asbestos, but many do, especially those constructed between the 1950s and 1990s. Professional assessment is essential to confirm.
Why Choose Excel Asbestos?
Excel Asbestos specialises in safe and efficient asbestos garage roof removals in the UK. With decades of experience, our licensed team ensures compliance with safety regulations, offering peace of mind throughout the process. We also provide affordable solutions for garage roof asbestos replacement.
Identifying and managing an asbestos garage roof is vital to safeguarding your health and property. From professional testing to full replacement, Excel Asbestos is here to assist every step of the way. Contact us now to schedule a consultation or get a free quote for your asbestos garage roof removal or replacement needs.
