How to Tell if Siding Has Asbestos?

Why Identifying Asbestos in Siding Matters

In the early days, asbestos cement siding was made using a mix of Portland cement and asbestos fibers. These shingles have been used for over 100 years now and still exist in some households.

While these shingles were once admired for their strength and fireproofing characteristics, it was later discovered that the presence of asbestos fibers could be hazardous. It is because when these asbestos fibers are released into the air and are inhaled or ingested by an individual, they can raise some serious health issues. For this reason, most homeowners prefer identifying if their siding has asbestos.

But how do you identify the same? Here is how you can tell if your siding has asbestos:

1. Manufacturer’s Labeling

The easiest way to identify asbestos shingles is by finding any markings or stamps by the manufacturer. Certain brands that manufacture asbestos siding use specific identification marks and labeling on the back of the siding, which can easily clear your doubt about finding out if your siding has asbestos.

2. Paint Color and Coatings

Asbestos siding originally came in off -white and grey colors until homeowners considered painting it in any color of their choice. So, if you peel off the layers and find old off-white and gray colors on the siding, probably asbestos might be the underlying material.

3. Fragility and Brittleness

Asbestos cement shingles lack the flexibility that is seen in sidings of today’s time and thus are prone to being brittle and fragile. Drilling, cutting, or nailing such sidings can cause them to break easily owing to their rigid nature. Such brittleness is an indicator that the siding material contains asbestos content.

4. Fastening Technique

Most asbestos shingles were earlier fastened with nails through predrilled holes. So, if you observe closely and find tiny nails in the middle or corners of the shingles, that could indicate asbestos siding.

5. Ringing Noise

If you suspect any shingles to be of asbestos, one of the easiest ways to test them is to tap the siding with a hammer. If you get to hear a sharp metallic ping just like you would hear while tapping a ceramic tile, it is probably asbestos.

6. Laboratory Testing

One of the most sure-shot ways to find out if your siding has asbestos is to send a sample to the laboratory for professional testing. Even if you happen to find a few of the above signs in your siding, professional testing can go beyond assumptions and get you accurate results. Seeking help from a licensed asbestos inspector can help you identify the same.

Worried About Asbestos Siding? Seek Professional Siding Services Now!

Finding out whether your shingle roof has asbestos fiber can be challenging and stressful; thus, we at Meridian Contracting are here to help! We have experienced professionals in our team who shoulder the task of asbestos inspection and further provide removal of such siding while ensuring that your home stays protected.

We also provide top-notch siding installations to give your exteriors a contemporary upgrade. Contact us now for safe and reliable siding solutions in Westchester County and Rockland County!

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