Asbestos Roof Shingles: Cost, Types, Safety & Installation

Asbestos roof shingles have been a roofing option due to their durability and fire resistance. However homeowners are encountering challenges related to these shingles such as safety concerns during removal and navigating the costs and installation process. In this article we will delve into topics like the definition of shingles the different types available and the expenses involved in removing or repairing them. Additionally we will discuss safety precautions, installation tips and the advantages and disadvantages of using these shingles.3wr3r

By the end of this blog you will have acquired knowledge about shingles including their different types available, cost, installation and maintenance processes. Get to know why these shingles became popular in the past. Find out if asbestos roofing shingles are better than asphalt shingles. Join us as we thoroughly explore this important topic and learn how to effectively navigate the complexities, associated with asbestos roof shingles.

There was a time when asbestos roofing tiles were the top choice for homeowners because they were highly resistant to fire and were really strong. Even though it is no longer produced there are still numerous homes which use this kind of shingle. It may be present in old houses; thus, caution must be exercised during handling or replacement. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about asbestos roof.

What are asbestos roof shingles?

Asbestos roof shingles are a type of roofing material manufactured by mixing asbestos fibers with cement. These could be found in many homes of 20th century they were really popular at that time because they did not easily catch fire and were resistant to rainwater. They were also very cheap, strong and one could put them easily so the majority of people used them in their houses. However inhaled asbestos fibers can cause some diseases such as lung cancers thus banned in various nations.

Asbestos roof shingles details:

Asbestos roof tiles have been praised for their durability and ability to withstand fire, decay and pests. Asbestos fibers were blended with binding materials like cement to produce these shingles that had a solid composition. However, despite being advantageous in many ways, asbestos shingles do not exist anymore because they happen to come with some health consequences.

Key features:

• Fire resistance: excellent fire protection from asbestos tiles
• Durability: proper maintenance can make these shingles remain up to several decades
• Weatherproof: neither water, pest nor rot destroys it.
• Health risks: they are dangerous may be released if broken or disturbed.

How to measure asbestos roof shingles?

Learn how to measure asbestos roof shingles for accurate replacement or repair. Here are some steps to make sure you have the right measurements.

Steps to measure asbestos roof shingles:

• Measure the lengths and widths of each part of the roof.
• Find area in square feet by multiplying its length with its width
• The total square footage is divided by 100 which gives us the number of roofing squares.
• To determine waste and overlaps, add 10%.

Expert tip: whenever you want to measure or work near asbestos shingles, wear protective gear as they can release harmful fibers even when slightly disturbed.

How many asbestos roof shingles in a bundle?

Discover how many asbestos roof shingles are in a bundle. Find out the exact number before your roofing project.

An asbestos shingle bundle usually covers 25-33 square feet, depending on the manufacturer and size of the tile. For a total roofing square (100 sq ft) you will need 3 to 4 bundles of shingles. It is important to find out the exact coverage when replacing old asbestos shingles so that you can order the right amount.

Asbestos roof shingles types:

Check out different types of asbestos roof shingles, their characteristics, and uses.

• Corrugated asbestos shingles: usually used for industrial and commercial roofing, these shingle types feature a wavy or corrugated design.
• Flat asbestos shingles: these are smooth flat designs for residential homes that look like regular roofing materials such as slate or wood.
• Asbestos cement shingles: they are made by mixing cement with asbestos fiber; hence durable and weatherproof against harsh climates.

Asbestos roof shingles colors

Discover different colors of asbestos roof shingles and get to know how they can impact the look of your home. Some common choices include:

• Grey: an impartial shade which easily matches with many types of home exteriors.
• Red: it has a strong, old-fashioned appearance that is often associated with colonial houses.
• Green: an earthy natural look which can complement your garden well.
• Black: this is a classic color that absorbs heat and gives houses a sleek modern appearance.

Asbestos roof shingle costs

Understand what influences the cost of asbestos roof shingles including materials, labor and disposal costs.

Very few companies produce asbestos roofing tiles nowadays; therefore, the cost mainly reflects repair or replacement services. Due to safety concerns, taking out asbestos tile’s costs much more than other types of roofs. Removing asbestos shingles may range from $5 to $15 per square foot including disposal fees. In case you decide to replace them with new age roofing materials, then the cost for new shingles plus installation could be anywhere between $90 and $800 per square depending on type used.

Asbestos roof shingles cost per square foot

Determine the cost per square foot for replacement or removal of asbestos roof shingles. The amount you spend on replacement of asbestos roofs with other materials depends on the type of material you use. On average:

• Asphalt shingles: $3 to $5 per square foot, installed.
• Metal shingles: $7 to $10 per sq ft.
• Slate shingles: $15-$20 per sq. Ft.

Asbestos shingle removal, due to the hazardous nature of asbestos, costs between $5 and $15 per square foot.

Advantages of asbestos roof shingles

Discover the advantages asbestos roof shingles once offered, including fire resistance and low maintenance.

Advantages:

• Fire resistance: they have high resistance to fire and are therefore ideal for the areas prone to wild fires.
• Durability: can last for many years with minimum upkeep and repairs.
• Weatherproof: these materials do not rot, get moldy or attacked by insects.
• Low maintenance: asbestos shingles can be used without much care as they will still function well.
• Cost-effective: this is because asbestos tiles were a cheaper roofing option before the prevalence of cancer-causing risks became widely understood.

Is an asbestos roof shingles cheaper than asphalt shingles?

Are asbestos shingles a more cost-effective solution than asphalt shingles? Let’s compare the cost of asbestos shingles to asphalt shingles and find out which offers better value for your roofing needs.
In the past, asbestos roof shingles were slightly more affordable compared to other roofing materials such as asphalt shingles. However, it is no longer true since asbestos removal and disposal has become a more difficult and costly procedure. Today, people will be ready to buy these sheets because they cost less than other roofs and last nearly the same time in addition to being able to put them up anytime of the year without causing any health problems for the occupants.

Are asbestos roof shingles better than asphalt shingles?

Asbestos roof shingles vs asphalt shingles

Even though asbestos roof shingles were deemed superior to the others because of their heat and flame resistant qualities as well as lasting longer than other shingles, they are no longer used because of the hazards they pose to health. Thus, today there are improved asphalt shingles with similar advantages but without the aforementioned risks, which means that they are safer and more economical.

How to install asbestos roof shingles?

If you’re not sure of your DIY skills, it’s better to call a professional .They have the experience and techniques to do it right.   

Follow this guide to learn how asbestos roof shingles were installed and the safety precautions involved.

1. Roof preparation:

ensure that the deck is cleaned and devoid of old materials.

2. Underlayment installation:

place a waterproof underlay that protects the roof from moisture.

3. Shingle laying:

start at the bottom edge laying every tile with one overlapping it.

4. Nail fastening:

attach the shingles using galvanized nails, ensuring that each nail pokes through into the deck of the roof.

Expert tip: never try to install or handle asbestos-based bricks by yourself. Instead, always contact a specialist who has received training on how to manage harmful substances safely.

How to repair asbestos roof shingles?

Learn the safe ways of repairing worn out asbestos roof shingles in order to minimize health risks associated.

Steps to repair asbestos roof shingles

1. Check for damage:

identify broken shingles and establish extent of repair needed.

2.Remove damaged shingles:

remove broken shingles cautiously without affecting neighboring ones.

3. Replace with new ones:

fit new ones ensuring they are aligned with existing ones.

4. Seal the perimeter:

seal the edges using roofing sealants to prevent water penetration.

Expert tip: avoid DIY  asbestosis repairs. Even minimal repairs should be done by experts to protect you from asbestos related diseases.

Can you put an asbestos roof shingles over asphalt shingles?

Answer is no, it is not wise to use asbestos made shingles above asphalt ones. Asbestos shingle can only be applied on a solid and clean working surface on the rooftop deck and due to risks when working on asbestos related products, an interference with already installed shingles is discouraged.

What types of warranties are available for asbestos roof shingles?

As far as asbestos roof shingles were available in market, manufacturers used to sell them with similar warranties to those offered with different kinds of roofing materials. In this case, the warranties were made to give homeowners a guarantee that the product was strong enough to last long.

Standard warranty period: depending on the manufacturer and the product line, most asbestos shingles had a warranty period that ranged between 20 years and 50 years. These warranties covered manufacturing defects like improper bonding between asbestos and cement mixture.

Will asbestos roof shingles increase the value of my home?

Roof singles tend to be considered more as liabilities than assets in many cases. A home’s worth can decrease when there is an asbestos problem if buyers consider removal and replacement costs as part of their decision-making process.

Can you paint asbestos roof shingles?

Find out if you can paint asbestos roof shingles and learn about the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.

Yes, it is possible to paint asbestos roofing shingles, but it isn’t widely done. Painting can make them look new again while providing an extra layer of defense but this can also seal dangerous fibers.

Pros:

• Improves appearance
• Extra protection from weather elements

Cons:

• Sealing off asbestos filaments may hinder future extraction process.
• When the surface is old, paint may not adhere well on it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, asbestos roof tiles were used as a household roofing material for ages because they are fireproof and durable. Nonetheless, their application has declined primarily due to health risks linked to asbestos. If you have such shingles on your house, it’s important to be aware of how to handle them, replace and repair them in a way that does not expose one to harmful fibers. Some of the present-day roofing materials include asphalt, metals or even slates which offer the same advantages without putting anyone at risk.

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