Should I Remove An Asbestos Roof Or Coat It?

Are you living or working in an older building with an asbestos roof? Are you concerned about the health risks associated with exposure to asbestos? If so, you may be wondering whether it's better to remove the asbestos roof or just coat it. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of both options and help you decide what's best for your situation.

About Us

If you live in the Sussex or Leicestershire areas of England and are searching for affordable asbestos removal services, you've come to the right place. Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex is a reliable and experienced asbestos removal company that's dedicated to helping our customers stay safe and healthy. Our knowledgeable and friendly team is fully licensed and insured, so you can trust us to handle all of your asbestos removal needs.

Roofing and Asbestos

Many older buildings have roofs that contain asbestos, which was a popular building material in the past due to its insulating properties and fire resistance. Unfortunately, exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Therefore, it's important to take steps to minimize your risk of exposure if you have an asbestos roof.

Overroofing

One option for dealing with an asbestos roof is to install a new roof over it, a process known as overroofing. This can be an attractive option for those who want to avoid the expense and hassle of removing the old roof. Overroofing involves installing a new layer of roofing material (such as tiles or shingles) over the existing asbestos roof. This process essentially seals the asbestos under a layer of new roofing material, preventing the fibers from becoming airborne and reducing the risk of exposure.

Pros of Overroofing

The main advantages of overroofing include:

• Cost-effective: Overroofing is generally less expensive than removing the asbestos roof and installing a new roof.
• Quick: Overroofing can be done quickly, often in just a few days, minimizing disruption to your home or business.
• Energy-efficient: Overroofing can help to insulate your building and reduce your energy bills by trapping heat inside.

Cons of Overroofing

However, there are also some drawbacks to overroofing that should be considered:

• Weight: Adding an extra layer of roofing material can make the roof heavier, which could pose a risk to the structural integrity of the building.
• Maintenance: Overroofing may make it more difficult to access the original roof, which could make maintenance and repairs more challenging.
• Height: Adding an extra layer of roofing material can also raise the height of the roof, which could be problematic if your building has height restrictions.

Asbestos Removal

Another option for dealing with an asbestos roof is to have it removed entirely. This involves safely removing the asbestos-containing materials from the roof and disposing of them properly. While this option is generally more expensive than overroofing, it offers the benefit of completely eliminating the risk of asbestos exposure.

Pros of Asbestos Removal

The main advantages of asbestos removal include:

• Complete safety: Removing the asbestos roof eliminates the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers.
• Improved property value: Removing an asbestos roof can improve the value of your property and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
• Easy maintenance: Once the asbestos roof is removed, maintenance and repairs are easier and less expensive.

Cons of Asbestos Removal

However, there are also a few disadvantages to consider with asbestos removal:

• Cost: Asbestos removal can be expensive, especially if the roof is large or in poor condition.
• Disruption: Asbestos removal can be disruptive and time-consuming, as it may require vacating the building for a period of time.
• Environmental impact: Proper asbestos disposal is critical to prevent further environmental contamination.

Contact Us

If you are located in the Sussex or Leicestershire areas and have concerns about an asbestos roof or are looking for affordable asbestos removal services, please contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex by phone at 01273 978238 or via our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk. Our team is always happy to answer any questions you may have and provide you with a free quote for our services.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision of whether to remove or coat an asbestos roof will depend on your individual circumstances and preferences. While overroofing can be a cost-effective and quick option, it may not be suitable for all buildings. Asbestos removal offers the benefit of complete safety but comes with a higher cost and greater disruption. The team at Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex can help you evaluate your options and make the best choice for your situation. Contact us today to learn more!