*Updated March 2025
Asbestos was widely used, including in garage roofs due to its durability, fire resistance, and affordability. However, following its ban in the UK in 1999, identifying and managing asbestos has become crucial for homeowners.
An expert will be able to safely identify asbestos, however there are still key warning signs to be aware of yourself. Read on to learn more.
If you suspect your garage roof might contain asbestos, here’s our comprehensive tool and guide to help you identify it and understand your next steps, including garage roof replacement options.
Asbestos Roof Checker
Instead of guessing, use our quick asbestos roof checker below to assess the likelihood of asbestos in seconds. Answer a few simple questions, and if your score indicates potential asbestos roofing we’re here to help. Don’t take risks with asbestos exposure – get started now.
Is Your Roof Asbestos?
Answer the questions below to see how likely it is that your roof contains asbestos.1. Was your building constructed before 1990?
2. Is your roof made of cement sheets or a similar material?
3. Does your roof have a corrugated pattern typical of asbestos?
4. Do damaged sections have a fibrous texture?
5. Are asbestos roofs common in your local area?
6. Is the roof a stained off-white?
7. Are there any brand, product or warning labels associated with asbestos?
Disclaimer: This tool is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a definitive assessment. Please consult a professional for a complete evaluation. Do not handled damaged or frail asbestos sheets under any circumstances.
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, refurbishment or upgrades during the asbestos era might have introduced asbestos materials. Even if the original structure was asbestos-free, be aware that asbestos may have been added during renovations.
🤔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. Local builders or council records may also provide insights into asbestos use in historical construction.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 Brands, Product Codes and Labels
These brands are all known to have produced asbestos roofing in the past. Spotting their brand name can be a dead giveaway.
| Brand | Notable Products | About |
| Eternit 1920s-1980s | Big Six, Double Six roofing sheets, asbestos-cement cladding, corrugated sheets, and boards. | One of the most well-known asbestos cement manufacturers. Often stamped with “Eternit” or its logo, widely used in roofing. |
| British Everite 1930s-1980s | Everite asbestos-cement sheets, corrugated panels, and roofing slates. | Embossed with “Everite” branding. Widely used in industrial and domestic buildings. |
| Turners Asbestos Cement 1930s-1980s | Turners asbestos-cement sheets, corrugated roofing panels, flat sheets, and insulation boards. | Produced a wide range of asbestos-based materials. Used in industrial, agricultural, and residential settings. |
| Turner & Newall 1920s-1980s | Trafford Tile asbestos cement sheets, corrugated sheeting, and flat boards. | One of the UK’s first major asbestos producers. Supplied materials for infrastructure and construction. |
| J.W. Roberts Ltd 1920s-1980s | Various asbestos cement materials, roofing panels, and pipe insulation. | Subsidiary of Turner & Newall. Operated a major asbestos manufacturing plant in Leeds. |
| Marley Eternit 1940s-1980s | Asbestos-cement roofing sheets, corrugated panels, and weather-resistant cladding. | Previously the Atlas Stone Company. Produced asbestos cement for commercial and agricultural use. |
| Cape Asbestos Company 1893-1980s | Various asbestos-based construction materials, including roofing sheets, pipe lagging, and insulation. | Founded in 1893, Cape was a major supplier. Widely used in construction, insulation, and industrial settings. |
- 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
If your garage roof contains asbestos, it’s essential to take the right approach to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Depending on the condition of the roof and your long-term plans, you have two primary options: professional replacement or removal.
1. Garage Roof Replacement
Replacing an asbestos garage roof is often the safest and most practical solution, especially if the existing roof is aging, damaged, or no longer fit for purpose. By opting for modern materials, you can improve the safety, durability, and overall functionality of your garage.
Benefits of Replacing a Corrugated Garage Roof:
- Health & Safety – Eliminates the risk of future asbestos fibre release, ensuring a safe environment.
- Compliance with Regulations – Brings your property in line with modern health and safety standards.
- Improved Insulation – Modern roofing materials provide better thermal and weather resistance, reducing energy loss.
- Enhanced Durability – Non-asbestos roofing options are designed to withstand the elements with minimal maintenance.
- Increased Property Value – Removing asbestos materials makes your home more attractive to buyers and may improve resale value.
Asbestos-free Replacement Materials
For asbestos roof replacements, these are most commonly used materials:
- Steel Roofing – Lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion, metal roofs provide excellent longevity and insulation.
- EPDM Rubber Roofing – Extremely durable and long-lasting, suited for flat roofs, with stylish black finish.
- Fibre Cement Sheets – A modern alternative that mimics the look of asbestos cement but is completely safe and non-toxic.
- Polycarbonate Panels – Ideal for allowing natural light into a garage, polycarbonate is strong, lightweight, and weather-resistant.
- GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) Roofing – A versatile, waterproof option that provides long-lasting protection.
Professional roof replacement ensures the old asbestos-containing materials are safely removed and disposed of, while a new roof is installed to provide lasting protection for your garage.
2. Asbestos Garage Roof Removal
If your garage roof contains asbestos but is not being replaced immediately, professional removal may be necessary – particularly if the roof is damaged or deteriorating. Removing asbestos must be done with extreme caution, as breaking or disturbing the material can release dangerous airborne fibres.
How Professional Removal Works
- Initial Assessment – Contact a professional to determine the extent of asbestos presence and the safest removal method.
- Site Preparation – The area is sealed off if required. Safety measures and protective equipment are used.
- Careful Dismantling – The asbestos-containing roof is carefully taken apart to minimise fibre release.
- Secure Containment – The materials are wrapped and sealed in accordance with hazardous waste regulations.
- Safe Transport & Disposal – The asbestos is transported to a government-approved disposal site.
- Final Inspection & Certification – The area is checked for contamination, and you receive a certificate of compliance for legal records.
⚠️ Never attempt to remove asbestos yourself. The fibres are microscopic and can remain airborne for extended periods, leading to serious health risks such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. Always seek professional help.
When to Seek Professional Help
It’s important to act quickly if you suspect your garage roof contains asbestos, particularly if you notice signs of wear or damage. Here are key situations where expert intervention is necessary:
🔴 Cracks, Breaks, or Visible Deterioration
If the roof is showing signs of damage, asbestos fibres may already be exposed.
🔴 Leaking or Water Damage
A leaking roof accelerates material breakdown, increasing the risk of fibre release.
🔴 Refurbishment or Roof Alterations
If you’re planning structural changes, asbestos removal must be handled before any work begins.
🔴 Buying or Selling a Property
Many mortgage lenders require asbestos-related issues to be addressed before finalising property transactions.
🔴 Legal Compliance Concerns
If you’re unsure about your responsibilities under UK asbestos regulations, professional advice is essential.
If you’re concerned about an asbestos garage roof, don’t wait. Avoid handling asbestos materials yourself. Instead, contact 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 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 £1200 and £2,400. 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.
