The Risks and Solutions for Asbestos Garage Roof

If you own an older garage with a corrugated roof made of cement, there's a good chance it may contain asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in building products until the 1980s, and it is still present in many homes and buildings. Despite being a useful material for its durability and fire-resistant properties, asbestos is a dangerous substance that can pose serious health hazards if not handled correctly.

Here's what you need to know if you have an asbestos garage roof:

The Risks:

Asbestos fibres are microscopic and if inhaled, can lead to serious respiratory health problems such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. The fibres can be easily released into the air if the roof is damaged, deteriorating or disturbed during renovation work.

The Solutions:

If you believe that your garage roof contains asbestos, the first thing you should do is have it inspected by a licensed asbestos inspector. They will assess the condition of the roof and the extent of the asbestos. If the asbestos is in good condition and not damaged, the inspector may suggest encapsulation or enclosure methods.

Encapsulation involves applying a sealant or coating to the surface of the roof to prevent fibres from escaping. Enclosure involves building a secondary structure over the roof to contain the asbestos.

If the asbestos is damaged or in poor condition, removal is the best solution. Always hire a licensed asbestos removal contractor to carry out the removal process. Attempting to remove the roof yourself could release asbestos fibres into the air and put you and others at risk.

Why should you address the issue?

Even if the garage roof with asbestos appears to be in good condition, it is still essential to address the problem before it deteriorates. Over time, the material can become damaged and release fibres into the air, causing a health hazard. Besides the health concerns, leaving an asbestos roof in place can lower the property value and make it challenging to sell.