Asbestos Ridge Tile
Moulded asbestos cement ridge capping tiles used to seal the apex of pitched roofs.
Description
Asbestos ridge tiles are moulded capping pieces manufactured from asbestos cement — a mixture of Portland cement and chrysotile asbestos fibres — designed to cover and weatherproof the ridge (apex) of a pitched roof. They were produced in angular or half-round profiles and bedded on cement mortar along the top of the roof where two opposing slopes meet.
Manufactured from the 1930s through to the late 1990s, asbestos ridge tiles were a standard component used in conjunction with asbestos cement corrugated or profiled roofing sheets, as well as with conventional slate and tile roofs. The asbestos content is typically 10 to 15 per cent by weight, providing the ridge tiles with strength, durability, and resistance to freeze-thaw cycling.
Asbestos ridge tiles are found on residential, agricultural, commercial, and industrial buildings throughout the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Europe. They are particularly common on buildings that were originally roofed with asbestos cement corrugated sheets, such as farm buildings, garages, warehouses, and factory units. In many cases, ridge tiles are the last asbestos components to be identified or replaced because they are less visible and less obviously different from modern alternatives.
In their intact state, asbestos ridge tiles are non-friable and present a low risk. The fibres are tightly bound in the cement matrix, and the tiles are located high on the roof where they are unlikely to be accidentally disturbed. However, the risk increases during re-roofing work. Removing ridge tiles by levering them off can crack or break the brittle material, releasing asbestos-contaminated dust. Cutting ridge tiles to fit around chimneys or junctions with power tools generates extremely hazardous dust.
During any roof refurbishment or replacement project, ridge tiles on buildings constructed before 2000 should be assessed for asbestos. If confirmed, they must be removed carefully by a contractor experienced in asbestos cement removal, using hand tools, wet methods, and proper waste containment. Replacement ridge tiles are readily available in fibre-cement (asbestos-free), clay, and concrete.
Countries where commonly found
Commercial brands
How to identify
Asbestos ridge tiles are angular or half-round capping pieces running along the roof ridge. They are grey and have a smooth or lightly textured cement finish. They are heavier than modern plastic ridge cappings and more brittle than clay or concrete ridge tiles. Look for a uniform grey colour, a slightly chalky surface, and check the manufacturing era of the roof. Broken edges may reveal faint fibrous strands. Any ridge tile on a pre-2000 building should be tested if disturbance is planned.
Health risk & friability
This material has a risk level of 2 out of 5.
It is classified as non-friable, meaning the asbestos fibers are tightly bound within the material matrix. When in good condition and left undisturbed, the risk of fiber release is low. However, cutting, drilling, sanding or breaking the material can release dangerous fibers.
What to do if you find this material
Do not break, lever, or cut ridge tiles without first testing for asbestos. If the tiles are intact and you are not planning roof work, they can safely remain in place. When re-roofing is required, have the ridge tiles tested before work begins. Removal should be done by lowering tiles whole rather than breaking them, using wet methods to suppress dust. All removed tiles must be wrapped and disposed of as asbestos waste at a licensed facility.
Frequently asked questions
Do all old ridge tiles contain asbestos?
Can a roofer remove asbestos ridge tiles?
Are asbestos ridge tiles a risk if I leave them on my roof?
Related materials
Other asbestos-containing materials you might encounter.
Asbestos Cement Corrugated Sheet
Corrugated roofing and cladding sheets made with chrysotile asbestos fibres bound in Portland cement.
Asbestos Roofing Slate
Artificial roofing slates made from asbestos cement, designed as a cheaper alternative to natural stone slate.
Asbestos Valley Trough
V-shaped asbestos cement troughs installed in roof valleys to channel rainwater between roof slopes.
Asbestos Roofing Felt
Bituminous roofing felt reinforced with an asbestos fibre mat, used on flat and low-pitch roofs.
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