What to Do If You Find Asbestos in Your Roof

Finding asbestos in your roof can be a cause for alarm, but staying informed and taking the right steps can keep you safe.

The first thing you should know is do not touch, move, or poke the material if you believe it’s asbestos. There are several health risks associated with asbestos exposure (we’ll get into those in a bit), so it’s best to stay clear of the area.

Instead, run through the following sections to understand what to do if you find asbestos in your roof.

What is Asbestos in Roofing?

Asbestos was commonly used in building materials, including roofing, until the late 1970s due to its durability and fire-resistant properties. While its use has since been largely discontinued, many older homes still contain asbestos-based materials. If your home was built before 1980, there’s a possibility that your roof may contain asbestos.

Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

When asbestos fibers become airborne and are inhaled, they can lead to serious health issues, including:

Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease causing scarring of lung tissue
Mesothelioma: A rare cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, chest, or abdomen
Lung cancer: Especially when combined with other risk factors like smoking

It’s important to note that these health effects typically result from long-term exposure to high concentrations of asbestos fibers. Brief or minor exposures generally carry lower risks.

However, any level of asbestos exposure should be taken seriously and avoided whenever possible.

Identifying Potential Asbestos in Your Roof

Visual inspection can provide clues about the presence of asbestos, but it’s important to note that definitive identification requires professional testing. Here are some signs that might indicate the presence of asbestos in your roof:

Age of the building: Homes built before 1980 are more likely to contain asbestos materials.
Appearance: Asbestos-containing roof shingles often have a mottled texture and may be brown or gray in color.
Wear and tear: Look for signs of damage such as cracking, fraying, or water damage, which can increase the risk of asbestos fiber release.

It’s important to remember that asbestos fibers are microscopic and cannot be identified by sight alone. If you suspect the presence of asbestos, it’s best to consult with professionals for accurate assessment.

The Importance of Professional Assessment

If you believe your roof may contain asbestos, the most critical step is to avoid disturbing the material. Damaged or disturbed asbestos can release fibers into the air, posing significant health risks. Instead of attempting to handle the situation yourself, we strongly recommend contacting certified professionals for a thorough assessment.

At Above & Beyond Roofing, we have the expertise to safely inspect your roof and, if necessary, conduct proper testing for asbestos. Our team is trained to handle these situations with the utmost care, ensuring the safety of your home and family.

If you are located in the Bergen County, NJ area, give our team a call at 908-588-9575.

Professional Asbestos Management and Removal

If asbestos is confirmed in your roof, there are typically two approaches to manage the situation:

Encapsulation: This involves sealing or binding the asbestos-containing materials to prevent fiber release. It’s often a viable option when the asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and not likely to be disturbed.
Removal: In cases where the asbestos-containing materials are damaged or pose a significant risk, complete removal may be necessary. This process, known as abatement, must be carried out by licensed professionals following strict safety protocols.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Asbestos management and removal are heavily regulated to protect public health. Key considerations include:

Permits: Many localities require specific permits for asbestos removal projects.
Proper disposal: Asbestos-containing materials must be disposed of at designated facilities.
Air quality testing: Post-removal air testing is often required to ensure the area is safe for reoccupation.

Alternatives to Asbestos Roofing

If your asbestos-containing roof needs replacement, there are many modern, safe alternatives available. Some popular options include:

Asphalt shingles: Cost-effective and versatile
Metal roofing: Durable and energy-efficient
Slate tiles: Natural and long-lasting
Synthetic slate: Lightweight alternative to natural slate
Clay or concrete tiles: Excellent for certain architectural styles

Our roofing experts can help you choose the best option for your home, considering factors such as your budget, local climate, and aesthetic preferences.

Preventive Measures and Maintenance

For homes with confirmed asbestos-containing roofs that are in good condition, proper maintenance is key to preventing fiber release. Some important steps include:

Regular inspections: Have your roof professionally inspected annually to monitor its condition.
Avoid disturbance: Never drill, saw, or disturb any part of an asbestos-containing roof.
Address leaks promptly: Water damage can deteriorate asbestos-containing materials, increasing the risk of fiber release.
Maintain gutters and downspouts: Proper drainage helps prevent water damage to your roof.

Above & Beyond Roofing: Your Partner in Safe Roofing Solutions

At Above & Beyond Roofing, we’re committed to providing safe, effective solutions for all your roofing needs, including situations involving potential asbestos. Our team of experienced professionals is equipped to:

Conduct thorough roof inspections
Coordinate professional asbestos testing when necessary
Provide expert advice on the best course of action for your specific situation
Manage safe asbestos removal or encapsulation processes
Install high-quality, asbestos-free roofing materials

We understand that dealing with potential asbestos in your home can be stressful. That’s why we’re here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring the safety of your home and peace of mind for you and your family.

At Above & Beyond Roofing, we’re not just about fixing roofs – we’re about protecting homes and the families that live in them.