6 Ways To Repair Asbestos Roofs
by Alcester Roofing
1. Patch Roof Repair
In an emergency roof repair situation, there are many specialist
coatings which can be applied while the roof is wet so there’s no need to wait
for the rain to stop to prevent a leak. Some of these coatings are
available without fibres for ease of application, and with fibres to bridge
visible cracks. For asbestos roofs, a primer may be needed before applying, as
the surface is more fragile.
2. Crack Repair Tape
This is a fast but short-term solution for leaks caused by an obvious
crack. Repair tapes differ though, many people use Flash Band, Aquaseal Hyband
or similar products. You may be lucky and they will adhere but more likely it
will be a temporary repair which will fail after a while.
3. Single Sheet Replacement
Single sheets can be replaced from the inside of the building, reducing
cost to the building owner as there is no need to spend money on safety
measures such as nets and harnesses. Working from the inside also ensures the
safety of your workers and minimises the risks associated with working with a
fragile roof.
You can also use GRP over sheet, which is using glass-reinforced plastic
(fibreglass) and applying a coating from the outside of the building. With this
system you have a replacement guaranteed to last at least 50 years without
deterioration. The system is also completely waterproof so there is no need to
waste further expense on treating it.
4. Bolt hole Repairs
Bolt holes in your asbestos roof, having been exposed to the elements,
will eventually deteriorate and enlarge. The washer will corrode also due to
UV, rendering it ineffective. There are two ways to fix this; you can either
replace the washer and bolt with a new one, or use flexible tape or a coating
to repair.
5. Refurbish with Fibroseal Coating
The Fibroseal system is specifically developed for asbestos roof
repairs. It uses two components which when combined; encapsulate asbestos
fibres, reducing the risk of fibres being released. Fibroseal will extend the
life on your asbestos roof, whilst also making your deteriorating roof look
much more attractive with its decorative finish.
6. Over Cladding
Another option for your asbestos roof repairs is to over clad it,
meaning putting another roof on top of it, normally metal. This is a common
technique to use and is the next best method, if you don’t want to use a
coating. It also adds insulation to your building, reducing further costs for
heating.