What You Need to Know about Asbestos in Garage Roofs

Asbestos is a material that was once widely used in construction before its severe health risks, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis, became known. If you have found asbestos or Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) in your garage roof, you might be concerned about how to remove it safely to avoid putting yourself and others at risk.

This blog post will take a deep dive into asbestos, helping you understand the risks and identify the tell-tale signs of asbestos in garage roofs. With this knowledge, you can schedule prompt asbestos services to safely address any potential issues.



The History of Asbestos in Garage Roofing

Before the use of asbestos was banned in the UK, asbestos cement sheets were a popular material choice for garage roofing, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. The type of asbestos used in these cement sheets was called chrysotile, or white asbestos, typically making up 10-15% of the cement blend. The roofing material offered a number of benefits to homeowners, including durability, cost-effectiveness, and excellent insulation and weather-resistant properties.

In the 1990s, the health risks associated with inhaling asbestos fibres became widely recognised, understanding that asbestos exposure can lead to severe conditions such as mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer. It wasn’t until 1999, however, that the government banned its use in new buildings.

If your garage was built before 1999, there’s a chance it was built using asbestos. For this reason, it’s imperative that homeowners are able to identify the signs of asbestos and ensure asbestos removal or asbestos treatment is carried out safely and appropriately.

Identifying Asbestos in Your Garage Roof

The only way to confirm the presence of asbestos in your garage roof is through asbestos testing and analysis. You may be able to spot certain signs that indicate ACMs, but this should be followed up with a professional asbestos service.

Let’s take a look at some of the tell-tale signs of asbestos in garage roofs:

●     Corrugated Roofing Panels: Asbestos roofing sheets are often corrugated design. However, not all corrugated sheets contain asbestos.

●     Built Before 1999: Garages constructed before 1999, especially those built in the 1960s and 1970s, are more likely to contain asbestos roofing materials.

●     Moss or Lichen Growth: A significant amount of moss or lichen may suggest that the roof is older and could contain asbestos.

●     Cracks and Breaks: Over time, roof panels made up of just concrete begin to appear crumbly, while those containing asbestos are more likely to show cracks. If you notice cracks in your garage roof, it could be a sign of asbestos.

●     Surface Dimples or Craters: Small dimples or craters on corrugated roofing sheets can also indicate the presence of asbestos.

Call Asbestos Removal Professionals

If you notice signs that may indicate the presence of asbestos, such as cracked or damaged roofing materials, it’s essential to schedule an asbestos survey as soon as possible.

At Gowrie Contracts, we’re a reputable provider of asbestos services across Scotland, offering reliable asbestos removal and asbestos treatment solutions. Don’t compromise your safety; let our expert team handle the situation with care and professionalism. Contact us today to book one of our asbestos services in Edinburgh, Fife or beyond and ensure a safe and healthy environment for you and your loved ones.