Building owners often underestimate the prevalence of asbestos in a wide variety of materials. It is valuable due to its heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties. One of the components asbestos is commonly found in is roofing materials. While its use has been largely phased out due to its health hazards, many older roofs still contain asbestos, posing potential risks to current occupants and workers during renovations or repairs. Millions of roofs across the country, including thousands in New York State, are in need of asbestos testing and abatement.
Why Was Asbestos Used in Roofing?
Contractors added asbestos to roofing materials such as shingles, felt, and tiles to enhance their fire resistance and strength. It also provided excellent insulation against temperature extremes and noise. Roofing materials made with asbestos were durable, weather-resistant, and cost-effective, which is why they became popular for homes, commercial buildings, and even industrial structures. Products like corrugated roofing sheets, asphalt shingles, and roofing felt often contained asbestos fibers.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
The primary concern with asbestos in roofing materials arises when the material is damaged, disturbed, or deteriorates over time. Asbestos is dangerous when its fibers are released into the air and inhaled. Long-term exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health conditions such as scarring of the lung tissue, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
These diseases often take years or even decades to develop after exposure, making early detection difficult. The risk of these conditions is higher in occupations that involve regular disturbance of asbestos-containing materials. Roofing contractors and construction workers are frequent disruptors.
Handling and Removal of Asbestos Roofing
If your property contains asbestos roofing, it is crucial to approach its maintenance or removal with caution. In many cases, the material is safe if it is intact and undisturbed. However, if contractors damage or deteriorate the roofing material, it may release harmful asbestos fibers into the air.
It is essential to hire professional asbestos removal contractors who possess the training and experience to handle and dispose of asbestos safely. They will take the necessary precautions, such as wearing protective gear, sealing off the area, and following local regulations for asbestos disposal.
How AEG can help
Asbestos in roofing materials poses significant health risks, but with proper care, New York building owners can manage these risks. AEG can provide an inspection and testing to determine whether your roofing materials contain asbestos— and if they do, AEG will conduct the required third-party monitoring required during abatement. With offices in Syracuse and Rochester, AEG is equipped to help homeowners across New York State.
Contact us to schedule asbestos testing: aegenv.com.