Research shows that nearly half of all homeowners aren’t sure they’d be able to recognise asbestos if they came across it, but nearly 62% have undertaken DIY renovations, which leads to this week’s Roo Roofing blog question - can you DIY asbestos removal?

But first things first, what is Asbestos exactly?

It was used a cheap fire and electricity repellant and installed in many Aussie homes pre-1980s. Unfortunately, it proved to be highly toxic and so nowadays you won’t see any new homes being installed with the product. Don’t worry to much, as it’s not dangerous unless the fibres are breathed in (which can happen when asbestos materials are disturbed and broken into during a renovation).

Undetected

Asbestos is almost impossible to see, and it is completely odourless. This makes it very difficult to assess the level of risk in your own home.

1 Leave it alone

Asbestos material that is in good and whole condition; that you don’t interact with regularly; and is not easily damaged is usually best left alone. However, any asbestos material should be regularly checked to make sure it has not been damaged or started to degrade.

If you think you have asbestos in your home you should never attempt to remove it yourself

Without proper safety equipment and clothing, interacting with asbestos-laden materials could be doing yourself a lot of harm. Breathing in asbestos fibres in close quarters is a sure way to make yourself vulnerable to related illnesses further down the line. Don't forget, these tiny particles can also attach themselves to your clothes, shoes, hair, tools and skin – meaning that you are unintentionally exposing yourself (and the people around you) to asbestos damage.

2 Making it worse

Once you start dealing with materials containing asbestos, you run the risk of disturbing fibres that were formerly secure. Microscopic particles of asbestos can then be released into your home, making your problem even worse.

3 Improper Disposal

Asbestos material must also be disposed of responsibly and safely - never put asbestos products in your household waste or recycling bins. In Australia, we have very strict laws when it comes to asbestos removal, so don't endanger yourself, your family or your neighbours by trying to remove or demolish asbestos yourself.

If you are renovation or suspect your home has asbestos products, contact us. At Roo Roofing, we are also specialists in asbestos removal, disposal, and restoration. We are fully equipped and qualified licensed specialists to safely and efficiently remove asbestos. We can also provide a free assessment of your existing asbestos sheets and recommend the most appropriate method of action depending on the state of the asbestos.