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
Warehouses and distribution centres have some of the largest single-roof areas in the built environment, and older facilities almost universally used asbestos cement corrugated sheets. Roof leaks, insurance requirements, or new tenant specifications frequently trigger replacement.
The logistics sector cannot afford extended downtime. Roof replacement programmes must be designed to maintain warehouse operations throughout the project, with phased removal allowing sections to remain operational while adjacent areas are being re-roofed.
What You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does asbestos dust stay in the air?
Asbestos fibres can remain airborne for many hours after disturbance, depending on ventilation and particle size. Professional air monitoring is required after any demolition involving ACMs before the area can be reoccupied.
Is it okay to scrape moss off an asbestos roof?
No, scraping or pressure-washing an asbestos cement roof releases fibres and accelerates deterioration. Use a specialist biocide treatment applied gently, or consult a licensed contractor about safe cleaning methods.
How long after asbestos removal is it safe?
After professional removal, a 4-stage clearance procedure is followed, including a visual inspection and air monitoring. The area is only certified safe when airborne fibre levels fall below 0.01 fibres per millilitre.
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