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It's perfectly safe to have asbestos siding. The asbestos is confined in a matrix & is no danger in that condition. Asbestos siding was common in the south because of its insulating properties. It could also prevent fires from invading a building....
Yes, as long as the material isn't disturbed, and the asbestos fibers stay contained within the cement, asbestos siding is safe. Asbestos siding can remain in perfect condition for 50–80 years or more.
If everything else about the house is perfect, then there's no reason to turn down a house specifically because it has asbestos siding. You'll learn more in a little bit, but asbestos doesn't pose a hazard on its own. As long as the siding is undamaged and undisturbed, the asbestos fibers won't cause you any harm.
Asbestos does not always need to be removed before a sale. If the material is in good condition and poses no immediate risk (e.g., it is contained and undisturbed), sellers can disclose its presence without taking further action.
Asbestos cement siding can also negatively impact the resale value of your home because of the way it looks. Unlike wood, which can be sanded down, repainted, and refinished, asbestos siding cannot. It's difficult to find replacement siding for worn-down areas, and many people consider it inherently unattractive.
Remove pieces of siding by pulling nails or cutting nail heads so as to minimize breakage. If necessary, carefully lift siding pieces with pry tool to expose nail heads. 2. If siding should begin to crack or crumble, immediately wet the cracked or broken areas with the pint spray bottle or garden pump sprayer.
The question is, "what insurance companies will cover asbestos siding?" And the answer is that most of the time, asbestos is not covered by insurance premiums. Due to its carcinogenic properties, removing asbestos is quite expensive, and most insurance companies will not include it in their policies.
The average price to remove asbestos siding is around $1,000, with typical costs between $800 and $1,200. The average price to repair asbestos siding is around $4,761, with typical costs between $665 and $8,856. Many projects come as low as $300 while some may reach $22,500.
The use of asbestos in homebuilding was discontinued in the late 1970s or early 1980s, but it is still present in many older homes. If your home was built before then and is up to 100 years old, it could be covered in asbestos siding.
Removing asbestos siding is the most thorough solution, although it is more expensive and potentially more hazardous if done incorrectly. This option eliminates the asbestos from the property, allowing for a fresh start with new siding materials and a safer environment overall.
How Long Does Asbestos Stay Airborne Inside? Asbestos fibers are so small they cannot be seen with the naked eye. These tiny particles mix in with dust and can stay airborne for hours. Many sources suggest fibers can stay airborne for 48 – 72 hours.
Asbestos only becomes a health risk when its fibers are airborne, which usually happens if the siding is sawed or broken. Intact asbestos siding is not a health risk if left undisturbed, but if your home has it, you might consider a replacement project.
One-time exposure to asbestos can cause diseases, including mesothelioma cancer. Researchers have found repeated exposure to asbestos increases the risk of developing asbestos-related cancers. The risk to individuals who have a one-time exposure to asbestos is generally lower compared to long-term or repeated exposure.
-Compare the newer siding to older siding areas and look for evidence that indicates age. - Asbestos was particularly prevalent in siding that resembles shingles or was made to look like wood grain. - If your siding has these characteristics, then asbestos could be present.
Homes built before the 1980s likely have asbestos in them. For instance, if these homes have popcorn ceilings or vinyl flooring, they may contain asbestos. A simple rule is the newer a home is, the less likely it has asbestos materials.
Selling a house with asbestos siding can be challenging, but it's possible with the right approach. Transparency and addressing potential buyers' concerns are key. Ensure all legal disclosure requirements are met and consider the pros and cons of removing the asbestos siding versus leaving it in place.
Asbestos removal is not typically covered by home insurance. There may be coverage in some insurance policies for remediation, for instance up to a certain dollar limit such as $10,000, for remediation due to a covered loss.
Whether you paint or replace your asbestos siding is mostly a matter of personal preference unless the asbestos is breaking down and causing potential health issues. But since replacing home siding is usually an expensive remodeling job, painting your asbestos siding is a more affordable option.
You do not necessarily have to avoid purchasing a home if it contains asbestos. Asbestos can be removed safely when done by a professional. You can usually get an estimate from asbestos removal professionals and, from there, you can decide if the home is still worth purchasing.
Just having asbestos siding and roofing on your home does not pose a hazard to your health. Asbestos-containing roofing and siding in good condition are best left alone. Damaged roofing and siding should be carefully repaired. Sometimes asbestos-containing roofing and siding can be covered with new materials.
Can I power-wash my cement asbestos siding? If low pressure is used without abrasives and the siding will not be disturbed, then pressure washing is allowable. If the washing abrades the surface, breaks, or otherwise disturbs the siding, then the project becomes subject to the asbestos regulatory requirements.
Generally, material in good condition will not release asbestos fibers. THERE IS NO DANGER unless fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs. Check material regularly if you suspect it may contain asbestos. Don't touch it, but look for signs of wear or damage such as tears, abrasions, or water damage.
All double-bagged or wrapped debris must be hauled to a disposal site licensed to receive asbestos containing waste. Debris must be legally disposed of within 10 calendar days of being generated.
Liquid dishwashing detergent– To be mixed with water to produce the best results when wetting asbestos. Siding removal tools: - A pry bar for lifting nails. A bar equipped with a blade at least two inches wide is best. - A nail puller or nail-head cutter - A knife or scissors to cut polyethylene sheeting.