There’s a fair chance that your older building has an asbestos roof over out-buildings, garages or extensions. The main roof itself may have asbestos containing materials in the form of paint, fire-proof coating or insulation.
Once hailed as a miracle mineral, asbestos occurs naturally in the earth. It is fire and corrosion resistant, lightweight, versatile and easy to transport and work with. If left undisturbed, it poses minimal harm but due to aging or damage, repairs or renovation works, the fibers work loose and enter the atmosphere. From there, they enter the lungs and respiratory system, causing a range of life-threatening diseases including lung cancer.
Since 2003, the use of asbestos across industries has been completely banned in Australia. This is the reason why building owners across the country have replaced or are in the process of replacing their asbestos roofs.
Safer Modern Alternatives
To identify safer, more modern options to asbestos roofing, scientists and construction industry experts have conducted extensive research. Alternative materials have to maintain high standards of quality and safety for all those involved, including workers, occupants, owners and the environment. These materials must be durable, sturdy enough to withstand harsh weather events and regular exposure to the elements, and they must be easy to maintain, eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing.
This is not an easy proposition, but the construction industry has provided a range of suitable alternatives. For more information visit: https://www.firstclassroofing.com.au/asbestos-roof-removal-melbourne/
Metal roofing is a viable option as it is lightweight, low-maintenance, fire and corrosion resistant, and able to withstand extreme weather conditions. It can be used as cladding, or as a complete replacement for your asbestos roof.
Fiberglass: is non-toxic, affordable, easy to work with and lightweight. It is available in the form of sheets or shingles and has excellent insulation properties.
Reinforced Cement Boards are composite boards made of cement and natural fibers. They are safe, non-toxic and can be painted or textured as required.
EDPM Rubber: is a good choice if you have a flat or slightly sloped roof. It is also suitable for garages, sheds or extensions. It is long-lasting, UV and corrosion resistant, and doesn’t require much maintenance. This material is available in sheets that have to be installed across a concrete roof and sealed to avoid leaks.
Bitumen Sheets: are the best option to replace old corrugated asbestos sheet roofing. This is a cheaper option, and the material is weather resistant, doesn’t produce annoying noises in rainfall, and is relatively easy to install and repair.
Asphalt shingles are a good choice and cheaper compared to clay or terracotta tiles.
How To Replace An Asbestos Roof
It’s crucial to understand that this is not the job for the average DIY enthusiast. Removing the roof, disposing of the materials and ensuring the safety of all in the vicinity have to be done by a trained, licensed and experienced professional.
Look for a licensed roofing contractor who has the permission and experience to carry out work like yours. They have the equipment, expertise, up-to-date information on the latest safety regulations and can handle all the necessary paperwork.
The first step is to assess the site and the condition of the roof. Based on this, the contractor will provide you with a quote with time, labor, cost and material details. You can specify the type of roofing material you want. At this stage, you can shop around for other contractors, but ensure that you don’t compromise on safety and quality.
Once the dates are in place, inform the neighbors and ensure that your family or other occupants of the building are moved to a safe place while work goes on. The entire building is sealed with plastic sheets and all doors, windows and other openings are sealed with duct tape.
The contractor will set up a safe containment area and seal it off from the rest of the space. Remove all outdoor furniture, cover the pool and park your cars elsewhere. Ensure that every worker wears protective clothing.
They may spray the roof with water to keep the fibers from flying around. Special vacuum cleaners may be used to catch fine dust. All material that’s removed is stored safely in air-tight bags or containers. The workers should have a shower and pack their protective clothing in sealed bags for disposal.
Every piece of equipment has to be thoroughly cleaned. The waste asbestos has to be disposed of strictly according to regulations. You can ask for a certificate of disposal so that you’re legally protected.
The new roof can then be installed.
