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Help to Eliminate Asbestos Siding on a Home

Asbestos is a toxic class of natural minerals once commonly used as a building material. In its loose form, it is easily airborne, and inhaling asbestos particles can lead to progressive scarring of the lungs (asbestosis), lung cancer or mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelial thoracic membrane). From the 1920s to the 1970s, asbestos was particularly common in the manufacture of siding and shingles, and many owners of older structures now need help in dealing with the problems of safe asbestos removal.

  1. Identifying Asbestos Siding

    • Asbestos siding is typically made of individual cement shingles impregnated with asbestos fibers. These shingles vary in appearance, and may be corrugated, flat or textured. Partly because of this range of finishes, asbestos shingles cannot be reliably identified from a simple visual examination. If you suspect that your house siding contains asbestos, contact a professional inspector who can safely examine and test the material.

    Remove All Asbestos?

    • If asbestos is found, don't assume that immediate removal is either necessary or preferred. This is frequently not the case. Asbestos is an extremely durable material. It does not rot or break down on its own, and can remain in pristine condition for decades. Intact asbestos can be touched or handled without any health risks at all. For these reasons, experts recommend that undamaged shingles be left in place, since the removal process is more dangerous than leaving intact siding alone.

    Removal Options

    • If your asbestos siding is intact, but you don't want to leave it exposed, it can be painted over or covered with other material. If you choose to paint your siding, use high quality latex over a latex masonry primer, without any prior scraping or sanding. If you cover your asbestos siding, you may use securely attached vinyl siding. Bear in mind that you should never use a saw or drill.

      If your asbestos siding is damaged, it should be removed. Outside of proper removal, avoid touching it or otherwise disturbing it. Under no circumstances should you dust, sweep or vacuum free asbestos particles. As a general rule, hire trained, certified professionals for any asbestos removal projects. Although private homeowners do not have to follow federal asbestos regulations, hiring companies that do so will significantly reduce risks to your health and safety. Additionally, in some states it is illegal for unlicensed professionals to remove asbestos products. Research your local laws thoroughly before proceeding.

    Risks of Do-It-Yourself Removal

    • Removing the asbestos yourself is not generally recommended. The process requires restrictive equipment for personal protection, including coveralls, goggles and a respirator. Proper removal also requires using water and other additives to douse and contain any asbestos particles that may be released. Removed shingles must be safely stored and transported, and any local regulations for disposal must be strictly followed. Additionally, asbestos removal requires a permit. Standards vary from state to state, and within local jurisdictions. Before proceeding with a personal removal project, thoroughly investigate your state and local laws.

      If self-removal is your preferred option, some state and local agencies publish extensive removal guidelines. While not meant as endorsements of self-removal, they do supply reliable information on avoiding the many potential health pitfalls.

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