Asbestos siding replacement is a project that has garnered significant attention in recent years. This is mainly because of the numerous health risks associated with asbestos exposure. As a property owner, it is crucial to understand when and why you should consider this project.
In this article, we will dig deep into the subject and provide an extensive guide on asbestos siding replacement.
Understanding Asbestos Siding
Historically, asbestos was a popular material in the construction industry due to its affordability, durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties. However, it came under scrutiny due to its health implications. Over time, health experts linked the material to severe illnesses such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Therefore, if your property was built before the 1980s, there's a high chance that it has asbestos siding.
Why You Should Replace Your Asbestos Siding
Health Implications
The main reason to replace your asbestos siding is to safeguard your health and that of those living or working in the building. The tiny, needle-like flakes of asbestos can become airborne when disturbed. Inhalation of these particles contributes to health problems.
Increasing Property Value
Another reason to consider asbestos siding replacement is that it can increase the value of your property. Potential buyers might shy away from properties with asbestos due to the attached potential health risk. An asbestos-free home may attract more interested buyers and fetch a higher price.
Regulations and Legal Requirements
In some areas, laws and regulations require property owners to remove and replace asbestos siding. Non-compliance could translate to hefty fines.
Steps for Asbestos Siding Replacement
If you suspect your property has asbestos siding, it's crucial to follow these steps for safe, effective asbestos siding replacement:
- Identifying Asbestos Siding
Before you embark on the replacement, ensure your siding is indeed made of asbestos. Engage professional asbestos inspectors to confirm the presence of asbestos in your property.
- Prepare for the Project
After confirming the presence of asbestos, plan for the replacement project taking into consideration timing, resources and potential disruption.
- Hiring Professionals
Due to the health risks, asbestos siding replacement should only be carried out by licensed professionals to ensure safe and efficient removal and disposal.
- Replacement of the Asbestos Siding
Professionals will use their knowledge, experience, and required protective gear to remove the asbestos siding. After elimination, it's time to replace the siding with safer, modern materials.
- Proper Disposal
After replacement, professionals have to dispose of the asbestos waste appropriately, following local regulations and requirements.
The Cost of Asbestos Siding Replacement
Asbestos Siding Replacement Cost completely depends on a variety of factors including:
- The total surface area requiring replacement
- The cost of labor in your area
- The cost and type of siding you choose to replace the asbestos siding
While it might be a considerable investment, the benefits of an asbestos-free property are certainly worth it in the end.
Frequently Asked Questions about Asbestos Siding Replacement
How Do I Know if My Siding has Asbestos?
Asbestos was a popular material used in siding for homes built between the late 1920s and early 1980s due to its fire-resistant properties. If your house was constructed during this period, it might have asbestos siding. Asbestos siding is often quite thick and has a unique, wavy bottom edge. It is advisable to have a professional conduct an asbestos test to confirm.
How Long Does Asbestos Siding Last?
Asbestos siding is quite durable, with a lifespan of 50 to 70 years, depending largely on the climate and how well it’s maintained. However, due to the health risks associated with asbestos, homeowners often opt for asbestos siding replacement before the end of its lifespan.
What is the Process of Asbestos Siding Replacement?
During asbestos siding replacement, a trained professional will first remove the old asbestos siding while taking appropriate precautions to prevent the release of asbestos fibers. Once the old siding is removed, the replacement siding of your choice can be installed.
Can I Paint Over Asbestos Siding Instead of Replacing It?
Yes, painting over asbestos siding is an option if the siding is still in good condition. This can be a viable short-term solution. However, keep in mind that replacement will eventually be necessary.
Who Can Perform Asbestos Siding Replacement?
Asbestos siding replacement should be carried out by trained professionals who are certified and equipped to handle asbestos safely. It's crucial to hire experts who have thorough knowledge of the regulations surrounding asbestos handling and disposal to ensure safety.
Is Asbestos Siding Replacement Costly?
The cost of asbestos siding replacement generally ranges depending on the size of the home and the type of replacement siding chosen. You should also factor in the extra cost for the safe removal and disposal of the asbestos siding.
Can I Replace Asbestos Siding Myself?
Due to the dangers of disturbing asbestos, it's recommended to hire professional contractors to handle asbestos siding replacement. DIY is strongly discouraged as it could lead to the release of toxic asbestos fibers, posing a major health risk.
Pros of Asbestos Siding Replacement
Improved Health and Safety
Asbestos, while it was popular in older homes due to its fire resistance and durability, has since been determined to be a significant health hazard. Breathing in asbestos fibers can lead to serious respiratory health problems, including lethal conditions like lung cancer and mesothelioma. Replacing asbestos siding with safer material significantly mitigates these health risks.
Enhanced Property Value
Once the potential buyer is aware that there is asbestos siding on your property, they might be dissuaded from making an offer or may ask to reduce the offer price. By replacing asbestos siding, you can protect, and potentially increase the value of your property.
Greater Siding Options and Improved Aesthetic Appeal
Asbestos siding typically has a very distinct, outdated appearance. Choosing to replace it gives you the opportunity to dramatically change the look of your house with a multitude of modern siding options, such as fiber cement or vinyl, available.
Energy Efficiency
Old asbestos siding, being not as energy-efficient as many current siding materials, could be contributing to high energy costs. Many replacement materials offer much better insulation, which can minimize energy usage and reduce your bills.
Cons of Asbestos Siding Replacement
High up-front cost
The process to replace asbestos siding can be very expensive, as its removal must be done by trained professionals due to the health risks it poses. The cost of replacement materials and labor can also add up.
Potential Legal and Regulatory Roadblocks
Depending on the regulations and laws in your local area, removal of asbestos might be tightly regulated. Legal permission or professional inspections may be needed before any work can begin, delaying the project and adding to the overall cost.
Risk of Exposure During Removal
Despite taking precautions and hiring professionals, there is always a health risk associated with asbestos removal because of the chance of asbestos fibers becoming airborne during the process.
Environmental Impact
The removal and disposal of asbestos siding need to be done incredibly carefully due to its harmful effects. Incorrect disposal can harm the environment, leading to the contamination of ground and water sources.
Unexpected discoveries
Upon removal of the asbestos siding, other issues such as underlying structural damage, mold, or even more asbestos may be discovered, leading to increased costs and extended timelines.
Requires Professional Help
Due to the associated health risks, asbestos siding replacement is not a DIY job and requires hiring trained professionals. Depending on their availability, this could delay your project or increase costs if emergency services are needed.
Disruption to Home Life
Asbestos siding replacement can be a significant renovation. It may disrupt your day-to-day activities as parts of your property could be inaccessible during the works.
Myths and Misconceptions About Asbestos Siding Replacement
As with many aspects of home improvement, there are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding the topic of asbestos siding replacement. Let’s delve deep and debunk some of these myths to bring clarity to homeowners and those considering a siding replacement.
Myth 1: Asbestos is Always Harmful
Misconception: All Asbestos is Potentially Deadly
In truth, asbestos doesn't pose a health risk if it is in good condition and left undisturbed. When asbestos-containing materials remain intact, the tiny asbestos fibers are held in place and don't present a risk. In fact, in some cases, it's safer to leave asbestos materials untouched rather than stirring up the fibers during removal.
Myth 2: Asbestos Siding Can Be Removed by Anyone
Misconception: DIY Asbestos Siding Removal is Safe
Removing asbestos siding isn't a simple DIY project. In many jurisdictions, it's a regulated activity for good reason - the improper handling and removal of asbestos can release harmful fibers into the air. It's strongly recommended that trained and certified asbestos abatement professionals perform this task to minimize the potential hazard.
Myth 3: All Asbestos Siding Must be Removed
Misconception: Asbestos Siding is Absolutely Unsafe
As mentioned earlier, asbestos in good condition and left untouched is not harmful. It only becomes a hazard when it's disturbed or damaged. If your asbestos siding is intact, it's often safer and less expensive to leave it in place and cover it with new siding instead of removing it.
Myth 4: Asbestos Siding Materials are Easy to Identify
Misconception: It’s Easy to Tell if Your Siding Contains Asbestos.
People often envision asbestos as a unique and instantly recognizable material. But the reality is, asbestos was mixed in with countless other products and materials, making it difficult to visually identify. Lab testing is the only sure way to identify materials containing asbestos.
Myth 5: Asbestos Siding Replacement is Always Expensive
Misconception: Replacement of Asbestos Siding Will Break the Bank
While it's true that asbestos abatement requires a professional touch, and that can be costly, it does not mean that it will always be exorbitantly expensive. Costs can vary greatly depending on the size of the job and your location. Also, alternative options like sealing or covering the asbestos siding with new material could be a cost-effective way to deal with this issue.
Myth 6: Asbestos is Banned, So Newer Homes Don’t Have It
Misconception: Asbestos is a Thing of the Past
While the use of asbestos has been heavily regulated in many countries, unfortunately, it is not fully banned in all places. Some products can legally still contain small amounts of asbestos. So just because a house is relatively new does not automatically mean its materials are asbestos-free.
These myths and misconceptions only scratch the surface of the wide range of misinformation out there about asbestos siding replacement. If you're faced with decisions about how to deal with asbestos, always consult with professionals and do your own research to make sure you have the right facts.
While a well-informed homeowner is helpful, when it comes to the handling and removal of hazardous materials like asbestos, the appropriate response varies depending on the specific circumstances. Always seek professional advice to ensure the health and safety of you and your family.
Summary
Replacing asbestos siding can be a crucial task in terms of both aesthetics and health issues. Asbestos siding replacement offers a chance to not only improve the look of the home, but also eliminate the risks associated with asbestos-laden siding. While the process can seem daunting, the benefits it brings about in terms of a safe and healthy living environment make it a worthwhile endeavor.
You can never be too careful when dealing with goods containing asbestos. When damaged, such materials can release harmful fibers into the air, posing a risk to health. Asbestos siding replacement ensures a safe environment for both you and your loved ones. It's crucial to hire trained professionals for this task to guarantee a thorough and efficient job, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved.
As the old saying goes, "Prevention is better than cure". It's important to take steps to eliminate potential risks on your property, and that often means replacing outdated building materials. The decision to undergo asbestos siding replacement not only offers the possibility of sprucing up your home's exterior but also presents a significant health advantage. In a sense, it's not just a home improvement project, it's a health-improvement project.
About Bay Area Siding Company
Bay Area Siding Company is your trusted, local go-to partner for all your siding needs in Bay Area, CA. We bring years of professional expertise and unparalleled service quality to every project we take on. Whether you're looking to repair your existing siding or starting fresh with a new installation, our team of experts will ensure the job is done right and leaves you totally satisfied. We work with a variety of materials and styles, and our goal is to ensure your home’s exterior reflects your personal taste while also guaranteeing maximum durability and efficiency. Trust us with your home, and you'll understand why we're consistently rated as one of the top siding contractors in the Bay Area.
