When it comes to home renovations, exterior siding plays a crucial role in enhancing the appearance and protection of your house. However, if your home was built before the 1980s, there is a possibility that it may have been constructed with asbestos siding. Asbestos, a mineral once commonly used in construction, was later found to pose serious health risks. If you’re contemplating updating your exterior without removing the existing asbestos siding, you may be wondering whether it’s feasible to overlay it with new siding. In this article, we will explore this question and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Understanding Asbestos Siding:
Before delving into the feasibility of overlaying asbestos siding, it is essential to understand what it is and the associated risks. Asbestos siding was commonly used in residential construction between the 1920s and 1980s due to its durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties. However, it was eventually discovered that asbestos fibers, if inhaled, can lead to severe health issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Asbestos siding is typically made up of cement mixed with a small percentage of asbestos fibers, combining strength with the insulating properties of the mineral.
The Risks Involved:
Overlaying asbestos siding does pose certain risks that should be taken into consideration. First and foremost, it is crucial to acknowledge that asbestos is not dangerous when it remains undisturbed. However, overlaying may disturb the existing asbestos siding, potentially exposing you and others to asbestos fibers during the renovation process. Additionally, if the asbestos siding is in poor condition, it may release fibers over time, leading to health concerns for the occupants of the house.
Professional Assessment:
Before considering an overlay, it is vital to consult with a professional asbestos removal contractor or a certified asbestos inspector. They will conduct a thorough examination of the existing asbestos siding, determine its condition, and identify any risks associated with it. The assessment will also help you understand whether an overlay is a viable option and whether any necessary precautions need to be taken to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the renovation process.
The Overlay Process:
If the assessment determines that overlaying the asbestos siding is a suitable option, the process typically involves the following steps:
- Surface Preparation: The existing asbestos siding must be thoroughly cleaned, ensuring it is free from any dirt, loose paint, or debris. This step helps create a smooth surface for the new siding to be overlayed.
- Installation of Moisture Barrier: To prevent any potential moisture-related issues, a moisture barrier should be installed over the asbestos siding before the overlay process begins. This barrier acts as an extra layer of protection and helps maintain the integrity of the new siding.
- Overlaying with New Siding: Once the moisture barrier is in place, the new siding can be installed over the asbestos siding. Various types of siding options, such as vinyl or fiber cement, can be used for the overlay, depending on personal preferences and budget.
- Trim and Finishing Touches: Finally, the project is completed with the installation of trim and any necessary finishing touches to ensure a professional and polished appearance.
Considerations and Alternatives:
While overlaying asbestos siding may seem like a convenient solution, it is crucial to carefully assess the risks and evaluate alternative options as well. Removing the existing asbestos siding completely may be the safest course of action, but it requires professional asbestos abatement services due to the associated health risks. Another option to explore is encapsulation, which involves applying a protective coating over the asbestos siding to contain and seal in the fibers, eliminating the need for removal.
Overlaying siding on asbestos siding is a possibility, but it should be carefully considered due to associated risks. Consulting with a professional asbestos removal contractor or a certified asbestos inspector is crucial to assess the condition of the existing siding and determine the feasibility and safety of overlaying. It is essential to prioritize the health and safety of everyone involved and explore different alternatives to find the most appropriate solution for your specific situation.