Welcome to another instalment of Ask an Asbestos Expert, where we answer common—and sometimes not so common—questions about asbestos for people across Australia.
In this edition, we’re focusing on asbestos roofs and how to safely maintain them until you’re ready for full removal. Many older Australian homes still have asbestos-containing roofing materials, and understanding how to care for them is essential to minimising health risks.
What Is an Asbestos Roof?
An asbestos roof is made from asbestos-containing materials that were commonly used in Australian homes and commercial buildings until the dangers of asbestos exposure became widely known.
Asbestos roofing was popular due to its durability and fire resistance, but over time, wear and tear can cause it to release dangerous fibres. These microscopic fibres pose serious health risks like lung cancer and other fatal diseases when inhaled.
If you have an asbestos roof, keeping it in good condition is essential until you can have it safely removed.
Why Is Proper Maintenance Important?
Maintaining your asbestos roof is crucial for preventing asbestos fibres from becoming airborne, which would increase the risk of asbestos exposure.
The more weathered your roof becomes, the greater the chance that deadly asbestos fibres will be released, especially if the roof is unpainted or exposed to the elements.
Proper maintenance helps reduce the health risks while you plan for a full removal or replacement.
Tips for Safely Maintaining an Asbestos Roof
Here’s how to safely maintain your asbestos roof:
- 1. Regular Inspections: Have your asbestos roof inspected regularly by professionals. The more weathered your roof gets, the more it can pose a risk.
- 2. Gentle Cleaning: Avoid high-pressure water or abrasive cleaning methods that could disturb the asbestos fibres. Use low-pressure water and soft brushes if cleaning is necessary.
- 3. Avoid DIY Repairs: Never attempt to repair asbestos roofing yourself. Handling asbestos-containing materials without proper equipment is extremely dangerous.
- 4. Temporary Sealing: If there are any cracks or minor damages, a temporary sealant can prevent further asbestos exposure until you can have the asbestos roof replaced.
When Should You Remove an Asbestos Roof?
If your asbestos roof is extensively damaged or weathered, it may be time to have it removed and replaced.
Asbestos removal is highly recommended if the roof poses a health risk, and a licensed asbestos removalist should always handle the process. A new metal roof or other safe roofing materials can be installed once the asbestos roof is completely removed.
How Asbestos Australia Can Help
When it comes to maintaining or removing an asbestos roof, it’s always best to leave it to the professionals.
Asbestos Australia offers expert asbestos roof removal services throughout Melbourne, Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia, ensuring that your property is safe from asbestos fibres. Contact us today for inspections, maintenance, or removal services.
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