What is the problem with asbestos siding?

Author: Miss Elda Funk  |  Last update: Monday, February 9, 2026

Avoid breaking, sanding, cutting, drilling and sawing the materials. These types of activities can release asbestos fibers into the air. Once airborne, asbestos fibers can be inhaled into the lungs, where they have the potential to cause severe lung diseases, such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Should you buy a house with asbestos siding?

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....

Should you remove asbestos siding?

Asbestos siding is not harmful if left alone. It becomes a problem when you remove it, any pieces that break become ``fryable'', releasing particles into the air. Removing it yourself will save some money, but depending on where you are, there are some pretty strict laws regarding how it's handled and disposed of.

Is it legal to sell a house with asbestos siding?

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.

Why do insurance companies not like asbestos siding?

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 problem with asbestos siding

What to do if house has asbestos siding?

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.

How much does it cost to remove asbestos siding?

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.

Can you get a loan on a house with asbestos siding?

It is important to keep in mind that getting a mortgage on a home with asbestos present may take more time and effort than obtaining a loan for a traditional property. However, if you are prepared to put in the extra work, it is possible to find a lender that will provide you with the financing you need.

Is it bad to touch asbestos siding?

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.

How to tell if a home has asbestos?

The only way to be sure whether a material contains asbestos is to have it tested by a qualified laboratory. EPA only recommends testing suspect materials if they are damaged (fraying, crumbling) or if you are planning a renovation that would disturb the suspect material.

What to do with old asbestos siding?

Your only legal options in having asbestos removed from your home are to hire a certified asbestos abatement contractor or do the work yourself. The law prohibits you from hiring anyone other than a certified asbestos abatement contractor to perform asbestos removal work.

Is it better to paint or replace asbestos siding?

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.

Can you power wash a house with asbestos siding?

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.

Can you insure a house with asbestos siding?

Most home insurance policies have an exclusion for pollution, which includes things like chemical spills and asbestos. But the EPA notes that asbestos only poses safety issues when it's disturbed, and harmful fibers are released into the air.

What is the life expectancy of asbestos siding?

Long-Lasting – The early versions of asbestos shingles were specifically designed to have long-lasting quality, as such, it can last up to 30 – 50 years in the same lifespan with the most durable and long-lasting materials in the market.

Can I live in a house with asbestos?

If you think there may be asbestos in your home, don't panic. Asbestos-containing materials that aren't damaged or disturbed are not likely to pose a health risk. Usually the best thing is to leave asbestos-containing material alone if it is in good condition.

Can I sell my house with asbestos siding?

Yes, you can sell a house with asbestos siding. In fact, it's very common because so many homes were built with asbestos materials. However, it may affect the sale process. Potential buyers might be concerned about the health risks and the cost of removal or encapsulation.

How to tell if your siding is asbestos?

-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.

How long does asbestos stay in the air?

One of the most worrying issues with asbestos is that in the event that it does get disturbed, it can be easily released into the air, and remain there for some time. It is thought that disturbed asbestos can stay airborne for as long as 48 to 72 hours before settling.

Can I keep asbestos siding?

Just having siding with asbestos doesn't put you at risk. It's generally thought to be safer to leave it alone than to have it removed, as long as it is in good condition. Sometimes, asbestos-containing materials can simply be covered with new materials instead of paying for asbestos removal.

Does asbestos siding lower home value?

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.

Do you have to disclose asbestos siding?

Federal law does not require the seller to disclose to a buyer that their home contains asbestos or vermiculite. State or local requirements may require disclosure.

Does homeowners insurance cover asbestos removal?

Homeowners insurance typically doesn't cover the removal of pollutants such as asbestos. However, if the asbestos is released into your home due to a covered loss, some insurance companies may pay for removal and remediation.

Can I remove asbestos siding myself?

During removal – The law prohibits you from hiring anyone other than a Certified Asbestos Abatement Contractor to perform, or assist with, asbestos removal work in your single-family residence. Resident homeowners may remove asbestos themselves, provided they follow applicable standards.

Is there a replacement for asbestos siding?

WeatherSide fiber cement siding is the one and only solution for replacing or repairing old asbestos siding shingles. It is available in a variety of sizes and shapes to match many of the old siding shingles installed over the last 60-years.

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