Asbestos shingles, once a popular roofing material, have a distinct appearance that can vary depending on the type, age, and weathering. Identifying them correctly is crucial due to the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. This guide will help you understand what to look for.
What are the Different Types of Asbestos Shingles?
Several types of asbestos shingles existed, each with slightly different visual characteristics:
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Smooth Shingles: These are generally flat and rectangular, offering a simpler, cleaner look compared to textured varieties. Their color was usually consistent across the shingle.
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Textured Shingles: These shingles had a more granular, rough surface. This texture was often achieved by adding small aggregates to the mix.
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Shake Shingles: Designed to mimic the appearance of wood shakes, these asbestos shingles had a more irregular, rustic look with varied thicknesses.
What Colors Were Asbestos Shingles?
Asbestos shingles came in a wide range of colors, mirroring the trends in home design over the decades. Common colors include:
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Gray: A very common color, ranging from light to dark grays.
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Brown: Various shades of brown, from light tans to deep browns, were also popular.
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Red: Red and reddish-brown shingles were also produced.
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Green: Though less common than other colors, green asbestos shingles did exist.
How Can I Identify Asbestos Shingles?
Identifying asbestos shingles requires careful observation. Here's what to look for:
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Texture: Pay close attention to the shingle's texture. Is it smooth, textured, or does it resemble wood shakes?
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Color: While color alone isn't definitive, the presence of common asbestos shingle colors (gray, brown, red, green) should raise suspicion.
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Age of the House: Houses built before 1980 are more likely to have asbestos shingles, as their use was largely phased out after that.
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Fragility: Asbestos shingles are often brittle and easily crumble when broken or damaged. This is a serious concern, as inhaling asbestos fibers is dangerous. Never attempt to break or disturb asbestos shingles yourself.
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Visual Inspection: Look closely for any signs of wear and tear. Are there areas where fibers are visible or the material is deteriorating?
How Do Asbestos Shingles Differ from Other Roofing Materials?
Asbestos shingles can be distinguished from other materials by several characteristics:
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Unlike asphalt shingles, asbestos shingles are usually more rigid and less flexible. They don't bend easily.
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Unlike wood shingles, asbestos shingles are typically more consistent in color and texture, and they lack the natural wood grain. They also resist insect infestation.
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Compared to tile or metal roofing, asbestos shingles have a distinctly different, more matte-like finish.
Are Asbestos Shingles Dangerous?
Yes, asbestos shingles are dangerous if disturbed. The fibers released during the deterioration or removal of asbestos shingles are known carcinogens linked to several serious diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Never attempt DIY removal of asbestos shingles. Contact a qualified asbestos abatement professional for safe removal and disposal.
What Should I Do if I Suspect I Have Asbestos Shingles?
If you suspect your home has asbestos shingles, do not attempt to remove or disturb them. Contact a certified asbestos abatement professional to have them properly assessed and removed. They can conduct an inspection to confirm the presence of asbestos and provide safe removal and disposal services. This ensures your safety and compliance with relevant regulations.
Can I Test for Asbestos Myself?
While home testing kits exist, it's generally recommended to contact a professional for asbestos testing. The results from a professional laboratory are more reliable and legally defensible if future issues arise. Improper sampling can lead to inaccurate results. The risk of exposure during improper sampling is also a significant concern.
Remember, the safest approach is to always assume the presence of asbestos until proven otherwise by a qualified professional. Prioritizing safety and following proper procedures is paramount when dealing with asbestos-containing materials.
