UKATA TRAINED OPERATIVES
FULLY INSURED
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BASED IN NOTTINGHAM
UKATA TRAINED OPERATIVES
FULLY INSURED
LEGAL DOCUMENTATION SUPPLIED
BASED IN NOTTINGHAM
Number 1 customer question : Are asbestos garages safe?
Many times we have been asked whether asbestos garages are safe to keep in place. From moving into a new property through to renovating your garden , asbestos garages can become a headache.
Here’s some background information on what asbestos actually is
Asbestos is a group of natural minerals made of fibres. There are six different types of asbestos , being Crocidolite , Amosite , Chrysotile , Anthophyllite , tremolite and Actinolite. In the UK , the 3 most common types of asbestos found in building materials are Chrysotile (White) , Amosite (Brown) and Crocidolite (Blue)
The thin needle like , microscopic fibres of asbestos are what can be released into the air and inhaled. Inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause life threatening lung disease such as cancer – which is why it is classed as a carcinogenic substance.
Removal of asbestos must be done by professionals who are trained to control these microscopic fibres.
Is asbestos still used to make garages now?
Asbestos was fully banned in 1999 in the UK. So, it is illegal to import and use asbestos now.
Therefore, modern constructions will not contain asbestos materials.
Where are the asbestos fibres found in asbestos garages?
When looking at an asbestos garage, a common misconception is that the actual cement itself is the asbestos – this isn’t actually true. Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre which has been mixed with cement to strengthen it. Strengthening of the cement with asbestos makes it last longer – at the time of manufacture , this was a good idea. Not so much now!
Asbestos makes up approximately 10-15% of cement products. The high percentage of cement results in the grey colour – making it hard to distinguish between asbestos cement and fibre cement (non-asbestos material).
How can you tell the difference between asbestos cement and non-asbestos fibre cement?
Asbestos cement and fibre cement look near on identical. This causes issues when deciding whether to employ an asbestos removal contractor or not to remove your asbestos garage or garage roof.
The only accurate way to tell whether cement sheets are asbestos or not is to have sample testing carried out. A sample of the cement is analysed under polarised light microscopes to identify if asbestos fibres are present. Only UKAS accredited laboratories can provide you an accurate result.
It is advisable to have the material tested so you can handle and dispose od it appropriately.
Is the asbestos cement in garages safe?
Asbestos is at it’s most dangerous when it becomes airborne. Airborne asbestos fibres can be inhaled and cause serious lung disease. Damaged or deteriorating asbestos containing cement , can release asbestos fibres into the air. Therefore :
· Asbestos cement which is in a good condition is safe to be left in place.
· Asbestos cement which is cracked , damaged or deteriorating needs to be either encapsulated (if appropriate) or removed.
Checking your asbestos garage on a regular basis , including after frost , high winds and heavy rain is advisable and can help to extend it’s life. You will be able to notice changes in the condition early. Early detection of changes means you can act before the asbestos cement gets worse becomes a higher risk.
Selling a house with an asbestos garage
There is no legal reason why you cannot sell a property which has an asbestos garage.
If the condition of the asbestos is good , there would be no reason for the garage to be an issue during a property sale. On the flip side , if you have a deteriorated garage ,it may de-value the property and potential buyers may either ask for a reduction in the property price, or ask to have it removed before as part of the sale conditions.
Do you need advice about asbestos garage removal?
Call us on 01158 241 995