Just because an asbestos roof is old and leaking does not automatically mean that it needs to be replaced.

There are cheaper options available, but should be used with caution, because not all roof coating systems are the same!

It is now possible to have asbestos roofs cleaned and then coated with a new type of sealant that is both decorative and waterproof.

When coating a roof, the condition of the existing fixings need to be taken into consideration, since fixing points and missing fixings will often cause secondary leaks in an asbestos roof.

We have managed a large number of such jobs and would be pleased to conduct a fixed price survey and feasibility study to provide you with a menu of priced options.

Please bear in mind though that manufacturer’s guarantees are not available for all coatings, though it is usual for reputable contractors to provide their own insurance-backed guarantees.

The better coating systems have full manufacturers guarantees.

Coating an existing roof is often the most attractive option for tenants with shorter term leases, or with less than 10 years remaining, or for landlords issuing a lease of ten years or less.

A manufacturer of one of the most popular re-sealing products claim that their product has a “life expectancy” of up to 10 years – which of course, is not quite the same thing as a guarantee.

The photographs below show a large industrial unit in Norwich where we recently managed a roof coating system, replacement roof lights and patch repairs to other roofs.

The coating system came with a 10 year manufacturers guarantee and the manufacturer inspected the job at various stages and at the end of the job, to ensure that the coating was properly applied so that the guarantee could be validated..

Roof Coating Project As project managers for this asbestos roof coating project, we specified the works, ran the tendering process, issued contracts, managed payment valuations, acted as CDM Co-Ordinators and issued all guarantees etc. For more information on what we can do for your commercial buildings, please call David Carter on 07800 790427

Asbestos Roof Sealing System With 20 Year Guarantee

There is now a system to seal an asbestos roof that comes with a manufacturer’s 20 year guarantee.

As you would expect when such a guarantee is issued, there are some conditions attached, most notably the requirement to thoroughly clean the roof and prepare it properly for installation by an approved contractor.

The approved contractor will apply the coating, which is sprayed as a two-part installation that dries to a hard rubberised finish that is completely waterproof in seconds.

The photograph gallery below shows a small roof before cleaning, during and after cleaning and coating. Clicking any image will start a slideshow.

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In order to qualify for the 20 year guarantee though, the roof should be inspected at least annually (9 months recommended) for anything that could cause deterioration, so the cost of these inspections need to be considered as part of routine maintenance. The roof cleaning company usually carries the inspection under annual contract.

Even new metal roofs will have inspection and cleaning clauses in their guarantees.

The inspection of a coated roof also includes a fungicidal wash to prevent significant moss and lichen regrowth, plus they re-apply the coating system to any areas that might appear worn or damaged for any reason.

A regular roof maintenance programme on an ageing asbestos roof will ensure that the life expectancy is achieved or exceeded, which, provides peace of mind to landlords and tenants alike.

To arrange a roof survey, to see whether your roof is suitable for this type of solution, please call David Carter on 0121 711 7110.