Asbestos in Roofing Testing

It is best to be ahead of the situation and sample the below building materials before a construction, renovation or demolition is done. In the state of Colorado, you are required to test for asbestos whenever more than 32 square feet of building materials is removed (per Regulation 8, Part B). If you’re planning a renovation or demolition project, you’ll need to test for asbestos before you get started.

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Asbestos in Roofing Materials?

Roofing Materials can contain asbestos. Many manufactures did use asbestos due to its ability to stiffen, increase durability, longevity, fireproofing etc. for Roofing materials. The following roofing materials are suspect for asbestos fibers and should be tested.

  • Corrugated Asbestos Roofing
  • Roof Flashing
  • Vents
  • Cement Roof Shingles
  • Roof Sealants
  • Caulking
  • Mastic
  • Felt Paper
  • Underlayment
  • Asphalt Roofing Shingles
  • Roofing Tars and Liquids

Why Use Asbestos in Roofing Materials?

Asbestos is:

  • Lightweight
  • Chemically Non-Reactive
  • Resistant to Heat
  • Inexpensive
  • Tensile Strength greater than Steel

Due to the exposure and protection that roofing provides for the structure it gets punished by sunlight, frost and moisture. Asbestos was used to prolong the life of roofing products. Due to its high resistance to degradation, Asbestos fibers hold and bind other materials together.

Asbestos has a higher tensile strength than steel making it ideal for helping strengthen roofing materials. Asbestos has extremely high fire and heat resistance. This makes it a perfect material to use for additional fire protection on a roof. The weight of Asbestos is very light in comparison to Asphalt, Tar and steel. Using Asbestos in roofing materials reduces the weight load on a roof making the construction much easier. Asbestos is an inexpensive material that was added in bulk to various materials by building product manufactures.Interpreting Water Test Results

Manufactures and Materials that used Asbestos

  • Johns Manville – Transite Corrugated Roofing, Roofing Products and Siding
  • AmChem, Inc – Black Cat Roof Coating
  • G.W. Berkheimer Company, Inc – Roofing Cement, Roof Coating
  • Barrett Roofing Company – Roofing Cement
  • Fiberboard Corporation – Rolled Roofing, Roofing Felt
  • Flintkote Comapny – Roofing Shingles, Roof Coatings, Rexalt Roof Coating
  • GAF/Ruberoid – Roofing Felt, Shingles, Siding
  • Georgia-Pacific – Roof Coating
  • National Gypsum Company – Asbestone Roofing

There are many other roofing manufacturers that have used (and still use) asbestos in roofing products. Even if you confirm that the manufacturer of your old roofing is not on this list, your roofing could still contain asbestos, and you will need to obtain proper asbestos testing before any renovation. Fortunately, a simple test can tell you what you’re dealing with.

Roofing Asbestos Testing FAQs

What is roofing asbestos and why is it a concern?

Roofing asbestos refers to asbestos materials used in roofing products such as shingles. Asbestos was commonly used due to its durability and fire-resistant properties. However, it is a concern because asbestos fibers can become airborne and inhaled, leading to serious health issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Why did they put Asbestos in Building Materials?

There are many reasons that manufactures put asbestos in roofing materials:

  • Lightweight – Roofs can carry only so much depending on how big they are. Lightweight asbestos roofing materials allowed for easy design for total roof loads.
  • Non-Conductive – No need to worry in a lightning storm!
  • Low Cost – Low cost of asbestos allowed materials to go further while adding strengthening properties.
  • Strength Properties – Asbestos has a higher tensile strength than Iron.
  • Durability – Asbestos is non reactive and inert for the most part making it the best for longevity.

How can I tell if my roof contains asbestos?

Determining the presence of asbestos in roofing requires professional testing. Signs that may indicate asbestos include older roofing shingles and certain cement products. To confirm, it’s essential to hire certified asbestos inspectors who can safely collect samples for analysis.

Is it safe to live under a roof with asbestos shingles?

Asbestos in roofing shingles is generally safe if it is in good condition and not disturbed. However, damaged or deteriorating asbestos shingles can release fibers into the air, posing health risks. Regular inspections and proper maintenance are crucial.

Can I repair an asbestos roof, or does it need to be removed?

Minor repairs to an asbestos roof can sometimes be made without removal, provided the asbestos-containing materials are not disturbed. However, if the roof is significantly damaged or deteriorating, removal and replacement may be necessary. Consult with an asbestos professional for the best course of action.

How often should I have my asbestos roof inspected?

Regular inspections are recommended for properties with asbestos roofing. An annual inspection can help identify any damage or deterioration early, allowing for timely intervention to prevent exposure to asbestos fibers.

What Is Your Roofing Project?

If you’re considering replacing old roofing, call EnvioCore today. We will help you find out what you’re dealing with before you risk exposing your family or workers to the dangers of asbestos fibers.