Asbestos is a mineral that was once widely used in the construction industry. However, it has since been found to be carcinogenic, and its use is now heavily regulated. If you are planning to repair your commercial roof, you need to be aware of the dangers of asbestos and take steps to protect yourself from exposure.

Ignorance can lead to serious health issues down the line for both the worker and their families. Read on for more information about asbestos and how to stay safe when working with it.

How Can You Tell if Your Roof Contains Asbestos Fibres?

If you’re not sure whether your roof contains asbestos fibres, there are a few ways to tell.

  • First, asbestos fibres are fragile and long, and they’re often bundled together in long, thin crystals.

Each fibre comprises many tiny “fibrils” that can be released into the air when the fibres are disturbed or broken.

  • Second, asbestos fibres tend to be slightly lighter in colour than other roofing materials.

If you see any fibres that look different from the rest of your roofing material, they’re likely to be asbestos.

  • Third, asbestos-containing materials often have a slightly different texture than other roofing materials. They may feel softer or more.

If you suspect that your industrial roof may contain asbestos fibres, it is essential to have it tested by a qualified professional.

There are numerous ways to test for asbestos, but the most accurate method is through microscopic analysis.

This involves taking a sample of the material in question and examining it under a microscope.

If asbestos fibres are present, they will appear as long, thin strands. Once you have determined that your roof does contain asbestos, you will need to take steps to have it removed by an expert contractor.

Asbestos removal is a complex and dangerous process, so it is essential to ensure it is done correctly to protect employees.

What are the Risks of Exposure to Asbestos Fibres?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fibre that has been used in a variety of construction materials for many years.

It is made up of microscopic fibres that can become airborne and inhaled.

Once inhaled, these fibres can become lodged in the lungs and other tissues and lead to multiple serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Asbestos exposure is also linked to an increased risk of gastrointestinal, ovarian and laryngeal cancers.

There is no risk-free level of asbestos exposure, and even short-term exposure can have serious health consequences.

Suppose you think you may have become exposed to asbestos. In that case, while the risk of developing these diseases is low in those exposed to low levels of asbestos fibres, the risk increases significantly with prolonged or repeated exposure.

It is crucial for those who work with or around asbestos to take appropriate precautions to avoid inhaling the fibres.

In addition, regular monitoring and maintenance of asbestos-containing materials can help to reduce the risk of exposure.

How Should you Repair a Roof That Contains Asbestos Fibres?

To Safely repair a roof containing asbestos, wear protective clothing, including a respirator, gloves, and goggles. Also, avoid creating dust by wetting down the area before you start work.

You can release harmful asbestos fibres into the air if done improperly, putting your employees at risk.

Whether you’re dealing with a small patch or an entire roof, a professional roofing contractor who has experience dealing with asbestos roof repair can be a tricky business.

Once the repair is complete, They will also be able to dispose of any asbestos waste in accordance with local regulations.

By following these safety precautions, you can protect yourself and others from the dangers of asbestos exposure.

Are there any alternatives to repairing a roof with asbestos fibres

Several products have been developed that mimic asbestos’s fire-resistant and insulating qualities.

For example:

  • Calcium Silicate board provides good fire resistance and insulation.
  • Perlite board offers good fire resistance.
  • Fibre cement boards offer excellent fire resistance and are widely used in construction.
  • Gypsum board is commonly used as fire-resistant wallboard.

While these materials are not as strong as asbestos, they can be used to reinforce damaged areas.

They are much safer to work with and pose no risk to human health. In addition, new methods of bonding materials together are continuously being developed, making it easier than ever to repair a roof without using potentially harmful substances.

As asbestos becomes increasingly regulated, it is likely that more and more roofing contractors will begin to explore these alternative materials.

Conclusion

If you have any concerns about the asbestos content in your roof, please do not hesitate to get in touch for a free and confidential discussion. We are experts in the safe removal and disposal of asbestos materials and will work with you to ensure that the risks associated with exposure are minimised.

In addition, we offer a wide range of roofing services that can replace or repair your existing roofing system, so don’t hesitate to contact us today.