How to Tell If Your Garage Roof Contains Asbestos

If your property was built before the year 2000, there’s a chance your garage roof could contain asbestos. While asbestos was widely used in UK construction due to its durability and fire-resistant properties, it’s now known to be a serious health hazard — particularly when disturbed.

But how do you know if your garage roof contains asbestos? In this article, we’ll walk you through the common signs, what materials to look out for, and the safest way to get a proper diagnosis.

Why Asbestos Was Used in Garage Roofs

Between the 1950s and 1999, asbestos cement sheets were commonly used in garage roofs, outbuildings, and sheds. The material was strong, affordable, weather-resistant — and unknowingly dangerous.

When intact, asbestos cement poses little risk. However, once it becomes damaged, aged, or disturbed, it can release microscopic fibres into the air that are harmful to inhale.

Common Signs Your Garage Roof Might Contain Asbestos

Here are a few indicators that your garage roof might include asbestos materials:

1. Age of the Building

If your garage was built before 2000 — especially between 1950 and 1990 — there’s a significant chance asbestos was used.

2. Corrugated Grey Cement Sheets

Asbestos cement often appears as corrugated grey or off-white sheets. These are usually flat or wavy and fixed with metal bolts or nails.

3. Textured Appearance with White Fibres

Some asbestos materials have a fibrous texture with visible white or grey flecks.

4. Lack of Manufacturer Markings

Unlike modern roofing materials, asbestos sheets often lack branding, markings or safety stamps.

Important: These signs are not foolproof — the only way to confirm asbestos is with lab testing by a professional.

How NOT to Check for Asbestos

• Do NOT try to break off or damage any part of the roof — this can release fibres
• Avoid sanding, drilling, or sawing any suspected material
• Do not attempt removal without proper training and PPE

Always treat suspected materials with extreme caution.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Asbestos?

1. Leave it undisturbed: Don’t try to remove or inspect it yourself.
2. Contact a licensed professional: An accredited asbestos surveyor can safely take a sample and test it.
3. Get a quote for safe removal: If confirmed, it’s safest to have it professionally removed and replaced.

Why Professional Identification Matters

Only a trained, UKATA-certified professional can:

• Identify asbestos correctly
• Take safe samples (if needed)
• Provide a lab-tested result
• Offer a certified removal and replacement quote

At Asbestos Roof Replacements, we offer free visual assessments and can arrange fast sampling if required. Our fully trained team follows strict HSE guidelines to keep your family and property safe.

Request a Free Assessment

If you suspect your garage roof contains asbestos, don’t take any risks. Contact us today for expert advice, safe inspection, and a free quote for certified removal and replacement.

✉️ Click here to request a free quote or call [PHONE NUMBER].