Many people are surprised to learn that asbestos was still widely used as a building material in the UK right up until it was banned in 1999, meaning that if your garage was built before the year 2000, there’s a chance its roof could contain asbestos cement. While asbestos isn’t dangerous if left undisturbed, ageing or damaged roofing materials can become a serious health risk if fibres are released into the air.
At Goodbye Asbestos, we regularly help homeowners identify and safely remove asbestos garage roofs across Surrey, London and the Home Counties. Knowing what to look for can help you protect your family, avoid costly mistakes and decide when it’s time to seek professional advice. Here are seven signs that your garage roof may contain asbestos…
1. Your garage was built before 2000
One of the biggest indicators is the age of your property. Asbestos was widely used in garage roofing throughout the UK from the 1950s until it was finally banned in 1999. If your garage dates back to this period and the roof has never been replaced, it’s worth arranging a professional asbestos survey.
2. The roof has corrugated cement sheets
Many older garages feature grey corrugated roofing sheets made from asbestos cement. While not every corrugated roof contains asbestos, this style was extremely popular because it was affordable, durable and fire resistant. It’s impossible to confirm asbestos simply by looking at the material, so never attempt to break or remove a sheet yourself without being sure it’s safe to do so.
3. The garage roof shows signs of damage
Cracks, chips, broken edges or holes can increase the likelihood of asbestos fibres being released if the roofing material contains asbestos. Weathering over time can also weaken asbestos cement, making professional inspection even more important. If your garage roof has suffered storm damage or is visibly deteriorating, avoid disturbing it until it has been inspected by an asbestos specialist.
4. The surface looks worn or moss-covered
Older asbestos cement roofs often become rough and porous with age. Moss, algae and lichen commonly grow on deteriorating surfaces, trapping moisture and accelerating wear.
Although moss itself doesn’t mean asbestos is present, it does indicate an ageing roof – another sign that professional advice is needed.
5. You’ve recently bought an older property
Many homeowners only discover asbestos after purchasing an older house. Garage roofs are often overlooked during surveys unless obvious damage is visible. If you’ve recently moved into an older property in Surrey, London or the Home Counties, arranging an asbestos inspection can provide valuable peace of mind before any renovation work starts.
6. You’re planning renovation or demolition work
Planning to replace your garage roof, convert the garage or demolish the structure? This is one of the most important times to identify asbestos. DIY removal is never recommended. Professional asbestos removal specialists use the correct PPE, specialist equipment and approved disposal procedures to ensure asbestos is removed safely and responsibly in accordance with UK regulations.
7. You simply aren’t sure
Perhaps the biggest warning sign is uncertainty. If you don’t know what your garage roof is made from, don’t take unnecessary risks. Professional asbestos sampling and testing will provide clear answers to help you decide on the safest course of action. Whether asbestos needs to be removed or can safely remain in place depends on its condition and your future plans for the property.
Trusted asbestos specialists for Surrey, London and the Home Counties
Based in Surrey and working across London and the Home Counties, Goodbye Asbestos provides safe, professional garage roof asbestos removal in full compliance with UK regulations.
Contact our experienced team on 0808 304 0382 for expert advice and a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll assess your garage roof, explain your options and carry out any required removal safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption, giving you complete peace of mind.
