Identifying whether your shed contains asbestos can be challenging without professional testing, but there are several signs and steps you can take to help determine the presence of asbestos:
1. Age of the Shed
If your shed was constructed before the 1980s, there is a higher likelihood that asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were used, especially in roofing, walls, and insulation.
2. Material Types Commonly Containing Asbestos
- Cement Sheets (Asbestos Cement): Asbestos cement sheets were commonly used in shed roofs and walls. These sheets are usually grey and may have a slightly rough texture. If your shed has old cement sheets, they might contain asbestos.
- Roofing Felt: Asbestos was sometimes used in roofing felt, particularly in older sheds.
- Insulation: Older sheds might have asbestos-containing insulation in walls or ceilings, particularly if the shed was designed for storage or as a workshop.
- Flooring: Some older sheds may have asbestos-containing vinyl flooring or tiles.
3. Visual Inspection
Some asbestos-containing materials may have labels or stamps indicating the presence of asbestos. Look for any markings on roofing sheets, insulation, or other building materials. If the materials in your shed are in poor condition, crumbling, or showing signs of wear, this could be an indicator of asbestos-containing materials, especially if the shed is old.
4. Common Areas to Check
Check the roof for corrugated cement sheets, which were commonly made with asbestos. Inspect the walls, particularly if they are made of cement board or similar materials. Asbestos was sometimes used in guttering and downpipes, so check these areas as well.
5. Professional Asbestos Survey
The only way to definitively determine if your shed contains asbestos is to have a professional asbestos survey conducted. Certified professionals can take samples of suspect materials and test them in a laboratory.
6. Avoid Disturbing Suspected Asbestos
If you suspect that your shed contains asbestos, avoid disturbing the materials. Asbestos is most dangerous when it is damaged or disturbed, as this can release fibres into the air. If you need to make repairs or remove parts of the shed, it’s crucial to contact a licensed asbestos removal professional to handle the materials safely.
If you have concerns about asbestos in your shed, it’s best to consult with us. We can assess the situation and guide the safest course of action.
