How To Remove Asbestos Siding Shingles in Hampshire

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in various building materials, including siding shingles, due to its strength, durability, and heat resistance. However, after it was discovered that asbestos can cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, its use in construction and manufacturing has been banned.

If your home in Hampshire was constructed before the 1980s, there is a possibility that it contains asbestos siding shingles. Therefore, if you are planning to renovate, repair or remove the siding, it is essential that you take adequate precautions to protect yourself and those around you from asbestos fibers. In this guide, Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, a leading asbestos removal company in Hampshire, provides step-by-step instructions on how to safely remove asbestos siding shingles from your home.

The Importance of Asbestos Abatement

Before we delve into the steps of removing asbestos siding shingles, it is crucial that we stress the importance of asbestos abatement. Asbestos poses significant risks to our health, and therefore, its removal must follow strict guidelines and protocols to ensure that the process is safe and effective.

Asbestos removal should be done by trained professionals who have the right equipment, and who follow the required procedures. Trying to remove asbestos siding shingles on your own can be hazardous, and can expose you to asbestos fibers, which are harmful when inhaled. Therefore, we advise that you seek the services of a professional asbestos removal company, such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, to handle this job.

Tools and Equipment Needed

If you choose to take on this job yourself, you must use the correct tools and equipment, which are designed to reduce the amount of asbestos fibers that are released into the air. Some of the essential tools and equipment you will need include:

• Moistened rags
• Shower or cleaning area nearby
• Respirator masks
• Goggles
• Disposable coveralls
• Sealant
• Plastic sheeting
• Nails or screws
• Hammer or drill

Starting Work

Before starting any work, make sure that you have taken all the necessary precautions to ensure that you and those around you are safe. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Identify any remaining asbestos. Look for any signs of asbestos on the siding or other parts of the house. If you are unsure, you can have a professional asbestos inspector come and check your home for asbestos.

2. Clear the work area. Remove any furniture or other items that might get in the way during the removal process.

3. Seal the place. Close all windows and doors to the work area and seal them with plastic sheeting and tape. This will help to prevent asbestos fibers from spreading into other areas of the house.

4. Prepare for the removal. Wear protective clothing, including coveralls, respirator masks, and goggles. Make sure that you shower or clean yourself thoroughly after the removal process.

5. Try not to break the shingles. Asbestos siding shingles can disintegrate quickly, and if they do, they can release harmful fibers into the air. Therefore, it's essential to try and keep them as intact as possible.

Removing Asbestos

If the siding shingles are in good condition and not cracked or broken, you may be able to remove them without causing any damage. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Start at the top. Begin at the top of the siding and work your way down to the ground.

2. Remove the nails or screws. Use a hammer or drill to remove any nails or screws that are holding the siding in place.

3. Gently pull the shingles apart. Gently pull the shingles apart from the house, taking care not to break them.

4. Place the siding in a container. Place the shingles in a container that is lined with plastic and seal it to prevent the fibers from escaping.

5. Clean the work area. Wipe down the work area with moist rags to remove any asbestos fibers that may be on the surface.

Removing Damaged Siding

If the siding shingles are damaged or falling apart, it's best to remove them entirely. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Follow the same steps as above. Starting at the top, remove the nails or screws, and gently pull the shingles apart.

2. Wrap the material. Wrap the damaged siding in plastic sheeting and seal it using the sealant.

3. Dispose of the material. Asbestos materials must be disposed of in a regulated landfill that accepts asbestos. Do not throw asbestos materials in the regular trash.

Understand Asbestos Fibers

Asbestos fibers are microscopic and can easily become airborne when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed. Therefore, it's essential to understand how asbestos fibers can be released and how they can affect your health.

• When asbestos-containing materials are broken or damaged, asbestos fibers are released into the air.
• When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can lodge in the lungs and cause various health issues, such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.
• Asbestos fibers can remain in the body for decades before health issues develop.
• Smoking increases the risk of developing asbestos-related health issues.

Alternatives to Asbestos Siding

If you are considering replacing your current asbestos siding, there are alternatives that you can use. Some of the most popular options include:

• Vinyl siding: Vinyl sidings are lightweight, easy to install and maintain, and are relatively affordable.
• Fiber Cement siding: Fiber cement siding resembles traditional wood siding but is more durable and resistant to rot and pests.
• Wood siding: Wood siding is a traditional and classic option that is also eco-friendly, but requires regular maintenance.

Permits and Regulations

Asbestos removal is strictly regulated by government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Therefore, you must obtain the necessary permits and follow the required regulations during the removal process.

In Hampshire, the agency primarily responsible for issuing permits and regulating asbestos removal is the Hampshire Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. Before starting any asbestos removal work, we advise that you contact this official authority to inquire about the necessary permits and training requirements.

Conclusion:

Removing asbestos siding shingles from your home in Hampshire requires proper training, tools, and equipment, as well as adherence to strict guidelines and protocols. Asbestos fibers can cause significant health issues, and therefore, it's crucial that you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are well-equipped to handle asbestos removal jobs in Hampshire safely and effectively. If you need help with asbestos removal, feel free to contact us at 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected].