Asbestos Roofing Shingles
Asbestos roofing shingles, also sometimes known as Transite shingles, were widely used in the building industry for many years. With concerns about health becoming an increasing worry amongst the population, their use has decreased as some companies have lawsuits that connect their use to Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related disorders. Even today, many older homes may have these asbestos roofing shingles.
What Exactly Are Asbestos Roofing Shingles?
Asbestos roofing shingles were roofing shingles made of a mixture of asbestos, cement, and other materials. The asbestos content could vary depending on the manufacturer, from about 5 to 35 percent. The type of asbestos used was usually chrysotile asbestos.Are Asbestos Roofing Shingles Really That Dangerous?
When asbestos roofing shingles are whole, they are not particularly dangerous. But, as soon as they get broken, disturbed, or damaged, fine pieces of chrysotile asbestos may be released into the atmosphere and inhaled by those who come into contact with it. Although chrysotile is generally considered safer than other forms of asbestos, it can still cause a number of health problems and should thus be avoided.Working with Asbestos Roof Shingles
Since there is a concern over the risks of asbestos containing materials and one’s health, it is important to take precautions when working with asbestos roof shingles. Each state and the Environmental Protection Agency have laws governing this, which should be followed. In general, you should wet the material before removing it, remove the shingles and do as much of the work as possible on the ground. You should also look into the regulations regarding the disposal of the shingles, as each area will have their specific laws regarding the discarding of asbestos containing materials.Asbestos roofing shingles were widely used in the building industry, until the concern over the use of asbestos to health led to a number of lawsuits regarding its use. Although asbestos roofing shingles are only really dangerous when the material is broken or damaged in a way as to release fine chrysotile fibers into the air, it should still be treated with care and special precautions should be taken when working with it.






