Replacing a roof? It may contain asbestos cement.
Asbestos cement roofing, corrugated sheets, slates, and flat panels, was one of the most widely used building materials of the 20th century. Millions of buildings worldwide still have asbestos cement roofs, many of which are now reaching the end of their service life.
You cannot simply replace an asbestos roof as you would a conventional one. The material must be removed intact by licensed contractors following strict containment procedures to prevent fibre release. Breaking, cutting, or pressure-washing asbestos cement is illegal and extremely dangerous.
After removal, the asbestos waste must be transported and disposed of at licensed facilities with proper documentation. Only then can the new roofing be installed.
The Problem
Industrial buildings represent the largest concentration of asbestos cement roofing in the built environment. Factories, workshops, and production halls used corrugated asbestos cement sheets for their durability and fire resistance across vast roof spans.
Industrial roof replacement is a major undertaking due to the scale involved, a single factory may have thousands of square metres of asbestos roofing. Phased removal programmes allow continued operations while the roof is progressively replaced.
What You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to change an asbestos roof?
The average cost for replacing an asbestos roof on a small building (garage, outbuilding) ranges from €1,400-€5,500 (£1,150-£4,500), depending on size, access, and complexity. Larger buildings cost proportionally more.
Is it safe to lay a new roof over an existing asbestos roof?
Replacing an Asbestos Roof Where possible removing the material is preferred. Full replacement may be necessary if the roof is deteriorated, leaking extensively, or posing a high health risk. This process involves the safe removal and disposal of asbestos materials before installing a completely new roofing system.
What can you replace an asbestos roof with?
Common replacements for asbestos roofing include steel or aluminium profiled sheets, sandwich panels with insulation, and fibre-cement boards (asbestos-free). A licensed asbestos removal contractor must first safely remove and dispose of the old material before the new roof is installed.
What is the average lifespan of an asbestos roof?
General Asbestos Roof Information The life expectancy of an asbestos cement roof is 25 to 40 years (according to RICS) and many could be at, or near the end of their economic life, suffering from a range of issues. However, the 'life' of an asbestos roof can be longer based on a range of factors.
Find a Professional
Connect with verified asbestos professionals in your area who specialise in this type of work.
Search the Directory