Asbestos Siding Removal for Older Homes

Asbestos was commonly added to roofing and siding materials in older homes to increase their durability and provide some amount of insulation and fireproofing. After the carcinogenic effects of asbestos were acknowledged, it stopped being used, and has not been incorporated into siding materials since the 1980s. However, asbestos siding still exists in many older homes and buildings. Asbestos siding removal is recommended if the siding of your home or building contains asbestos, and is damaged or in an otherwise poor condition. There is a risk of asbestos fibers becoming airborne and entering your lungs during renovation, remodeling, or as a result of significant damage to your home's exterior.

It is best to eliminate this risk by removing the asbestos siding or covering it with a protective covering. At Advanced Environmental Services, we can help you make an informed choice on asbestos abatement. To learn more about our asbestos removal services, call us at (314) 865-2662 or request a free estimate online.

Removing Asbestos Siding: What Siding Products Do We Check For?

The following siding products and materials have been found to contain asbestos:

• Transite Siding: This is a type of cement-asbestos product. Previously, asbestos fibers in amounts ranging from 12-50% were added to concrete to compensate for its low tensile strength, similar to the introduction of steel bars in concrete (reinforced concrete) used today.
• Slate Siding: This is a type of cement board that used asbestos as a binder for the cement. It was used to replicate the look of wood shingles, and can be found in several older homes.
• Mastics and Adhesives: Manufacturers previously added asbestos to different types of mastics and sealants used in construction.
• Paint: Asbestos was once a common ingredient in paints. Asbestos-containing paint isn't harmful when it is intact, but dangerous when it cracks and crumbles.

Asbestos siding removal is usually undertaken before new siding is installed. However, any renovation that can disturb the asbestos siding must be planned carefully to ensure that asbestos fibers are not released in the air.

What Does Asbestos Siding Removal Involve?

If you decide to remove your home's asbestos siding on your own, the process can become risky after a point. This happens when you are unable to remove the siding in whole pieces, causing it to break off. Never drill or saw the siding either, as it is a sure-fire way to release and become exposed to asbestos fibers.

Removing asbestos siding requires specialized knowledge and extensive practical training. Because of this, it is usually recommended that home and building owners hire an asbestos removal contractor to ensure that the work is performed effectively and safely.

Professional asbestos siding removal involves setting up an exclusion zone with barricades. The removal team will wear personal protective equipment to avoid the inhalation of asbestos fibers and dust. They will wet the siding with water in areas where it is fastened to the building to avoid breakage. Fasteners are then cut using a special saw without damaging the shingle. Finally, the team will dispose of the debris in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.

Trust Asbestos Siding Removal from Advanced Environmental Services, Inc.

At Advanced Environmental Services, we use only safe and approved methods of removing asbestos siding. You can trust us for reliable and cost-effective asbestos abatement solutions throughout St. Louis, St. Charles, Columbia, and the surrounding Missouri communities. Call us at (314) 865-2662 or request a free estimate today to get started on your asbestos siding removal project.