Asbestos Roofing Felt - Resources

Definition of Asbestos Roofing Felt

Asbestos roofing felt is a building material used in the construction industry for waterproofing and roofing purposes. This material, comprised of a base fabric saturated with asphalt and mixed with asbestos fibers, was once widely recognized for its durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties.

History of Asbestos Use in Roofing Materials

The extensive use of asbestos in roofing materials dates back to the early 20th century. The construction industry valued asbestos for its resistance to heat, chemicals, and water, making it an ideal additive in roofing felts, shingles, and adhesives. However, by the late 1970s, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure became increasingly apparent, leading to a decline in its use.

Dangers of Asbestos Exposure

Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health conditions, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma – a rare form of cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs or the abdomen. The microscopic fibers, when inhaled, can become lodged in lung tissue, causing inflammation, scarring, and eventually, disease.

Regulations and Restrictions Regarding Asbestos Roofing Felt

In response to the health risks posed by asbestos, governments worldwide have enacted strict regulations and restrictions on its use, including in roofing materials. In Canada, for example, the use of asbestos in construction has been severely limited, with specific regulations in place for handling, removal, and disposal to protect workers and the public from exposure.

Alternatives to Asbestos Roofing Felt

Thanks to advancements in building materials, there are now safer alternatives to asbestos roofing felt that do not compromise on quality or durability. Some of these include:

• Fiberglass-based felts
• Synthetic underlayments
• Eco-friendly options such as recycled rubber or plastic roof tiles

Proper Disposal of Asbestos Roofing Materials

Disposing of asbestos-containing materials requires careful handling and adherence to regulatory guidelines to prevent the release of fibers into the environment. Asbestos Environmental of Canada follows strict protocols for the safe removal and disposal of asbestos roofing felt, ensuring that all materials are contained and transported to designated disposal sites.

Precautions When Working with Asbestos Roofing Felt

When dealing with asbestos-containing roofing materials, it is imperative to take stringent safety precautions:

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Use wet methods to suppress dust
• Ensure proper ventilation and use HEPA-filtered vacuums for cleanup

Our team of professionals is trained to manage these risks, providing safe removal services while minimizing exposure.

Common Uses of Asbestos Roofing Felt

Before the widespread restrictions on asbestos, roofing felt containing asbestos was commonly used in both residential and commercial construction for its waterproofing and fire-resistant qualities. It was often applied beneath roofing shingles or tiles to provide an extra layer of protection against moisture and to enhance roof longevity. Though its use has significantly declined, understanding its history and potential presence in older buildings is crucial for safe management.

At Asbestos Environmental of Canada, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our clients through expert detection, removal, and disposal of hazardous materials like asbestos. With the risks associated with asbestos roofing felt well-documented, our focus remains on delivering solutions that protect public health while adhering to the highest safety standards. For anyone facing the challenge of dealing with asbestos in their property, we offer comprehensive services to address and mitigate these hazards efficiently and effectively.