Some jobs require more than just technical skill – they demand patience, planning, and a careful understanding of the space. One such project took place recently in Derby, where we were called out to remove and replace the asbestos roof of a large garage built snugly between two residential houses and a garden shed.
Access was tight, movement limited, and the surrounding structures left no margin for error. Fortunately, Excel Roofing & Asbestos thrives in precisely these kinds of scenarios.
Initial Assessment & Site Planning
Our client’s garage had a pitched asbestos cement roof that had begun to sag in places. While the structural timbers beneath were mostly intact, rain had begun to leak through, and the presence of asbestos meant further degradation posed health risks.
Due to the garage’s positioning, working space was extremely restricted – only one side had reasonable access, and the roofline ran close to neighbouring properties. Before any removal work began, we carried out a full risk assessment, including scaffold planning and boundary protection.
We mapped out a staged removal strategy that would allow our team to work safely and efficiently without compromising nearby structures or creating disruption for the neighbours.
Asbestos Removal in Confined Conditions
With the scaffold erected to give controlled access to both sides of the pitched roof, we sealed off the work zone using heavy-duty sheeting and cordons. All removal staff wore coveralls and P3 respiratory protection.
The asbestos cement sheets were dampened and removed one at a time using manual tools. Progress was steady and careful, with each section of roof handed down and immediately sealed in approved asbestos waste bags.
The surrounding shed was covered with protective tarpaulin during the process to prevent surface contamination.
After the removal, we carried out detailed inspections of the roofline, neighbouring fences, and guttering areas to ensure the site was left entirely clean.
Installing the New Roof
For the roof replacement, the client selected a robust, anthracite grey steel sheet system with deep-profile ribs – designed not only for strength but to give a modern visual upgrade. The panels were pre-cut and transported to site in manageable sizes to accommodate the restricted access.
Once hoisted and aligned, they were fixed securely to the existing timber framework, which had been treated and reinforced where needed. Eaves flashings were added to deflect water and protect the edges of the new roof from weather exposure.
Despite the confined setting, our team completed the installation with minimal disruption, finishing off with new ridge capping to seal the pitch and ensure a watertight finish.
Result & Cleanup
The transformation was immediate – from a crumbling, potentially hazardous roof to a clean, sharp, and maintenance-free structure that now blends seamlessly with the surroundings.
The final cleanup included the removal of all waste materials, dismantling of scaffold, and a thorough sweep of all walkways, ensuring the site was spotless before we left.
Need Help with a Tricky Roof Replacement?
Whether you’ve got open access or a confined plot between properties, we’re ready to handle it. Excel Roofing & Asbestos provides expert asbestos removal and roofing solutions tailored to the space you’re working with.
Call 0800 0996 558
Email: info@excel-asbestos.com
Complex site? No problem. We make it simple, safe, and solid.
