Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials from the early 1900s until the late 1980s. It was popular due to its fire-resistant properties and durability. However, it was later discovered that asbestos exposure could lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases.
Therefore, the use of asbestos in construction materials was banned in Australia in 2003. However, many buildings still have asbestos-containing materials, especially in roofing. This article will discuss the signs that your roof is affected by asbestos.
Age of the Roof
The first sign that your roof may contain asbestos is its age. If your roof was installed before the 1990s, it is likely that it contains asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in roofing materials until the 1980s. Therefore, if your roof is more than 30 years old, it is a good idea to have it inspected by a professional.
Corrugated Roofing
Corrugated roofing is a common roofing material in Australia, especially in rural areas. Asbestos was commonly used in corrugated roofing until the early 1980s. Therefore, if your corrugated roof was installed before this time, it is likely that it contains asbestos. You can identify asbestos by its grey or brown colour and its fibrous texture.
Flat Roofing
Flat roofing was also commonly used in construction until the 1980s. Asbestos was often used in flat roofing materials due to its durability and fire-resistant properties. If your flat roof is more than 30 years old, it is likely that it contains asbestos. You can identify asbestos in flat roofing materials by its fibrous texture.
Cracked or Damaged Roof
If your roof is cracked or damaged, it is essential to have it inspected by a professional. Cracks or damage to asbestos-containing roofs can release asbestos fibres into the air. Asbestos fibres are extremely hazardous to health if inhaled. Therefore, if your roof is damaged, it is important to have it repaired or replaced by a professional who is trained in dealing with asbestos.
Moss or Lichen Growth
Moss or lichen growth on your roof can be a sign that your roof is damaged. Moss or lichen can grow on roofs that are cracked or damaged, and they can cause further damage to the roof. However, if your roof is made of asbestos-containing materials, moss or lichen growth can be a sign that the asbestos-containing materials have degraded. When asbestos-containing materials degrade, they can release asbestos fibres into the air, which can be hazardous to health.
Water Stains or Discolouration
Water stains or discolouration on your roof can be a sign that your roof is damaged. Water stains indicate that water is penetrating your roof, which can cause further damage. However, if your roof is made of asbestos-containing materials, water stains or discolouration can be a sign that the asbestos-containing materials have degraded. When asbestos-containing materials degrade, they can release asbestos fibres into the air, which can be hazardous to health.
Professional Inspection
The only way to be sure that your roof contains asbestos is to have it inspected by a professional. A professional who is trained in dealing with asbestos can identify asbestos-containing materials and recommend the best course of action. If your roof does contain asbestos, it is essential to have it removed or repaired by a professional who is trained in dealing with asbestos.
Conclusion
Asbestos-containing materials were commonly used in construction until the late 1980s. If your roof does contain asbestos, it is essential to have it removed or repaired by a professional who is trained in dealing with asbestos. Remember, the only way to be sure that your roof contains asbestos is to have it inspected by a professional.
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