How Do I Get Rid of Asbestos Siding? A Comprehensive Guide

Removing asbestos siding isn’t a DIY project; it requires a specialized approach due to the health risks associated with asbestos fibers. The only safe and legal way to dispose of asbestos siding is by hiring a licensed and certified asbestos abatement professional who follows strict EPA and OSHA regulations.

Understanding the Dangers of Asbestos

Before delving into the removal process, it’s crucial to understand why asbestos siding is so hazardous. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials for its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, when asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) like siding are disturbed, microscopic fibers are released into the air. These fibers, when inhaled, can cause serious and often fatal diseases, including:

Asbestosis: A chronic inflammatory and scarring disease affecting the lungs.
Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, especially in smokers.
Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.

Due to these severe health risks, disturbing or removing asbestos siding requires strict adherence to safety protocols.

Steps Involved in Asbestos Siding Removal

The process of safely removing asbestos siding involves several crucial steps, all of which should be handled by licensed professionals:

Inspection and Testing: Before any work begins, a qualified inspector will collect samples of the siding and have them tested in a laboratory to confirm the presence and type of asbestos. This report is essential for planning the removal process.
Permitting: In most jurisdictions, a permit is required before any asbestos abatement work can commence. The abatement company will handle obtaining the necessary permits, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Containment: The work area must be meticulously contained to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the surrounding environment. This typically involves sealing off windows and doors with plastic sheeting and using negative air pressure machines to filter the air.
Wetting: Before removal, the siding is thoroughly wetted with a specialized solution to minimize dust generation. This helps to bind the asbestos fibers and prevent them from becoming airborne.
Careful Removal: The siding is carefully removed piece by piece, avoiding breakage or damage that could release fibers. The abatement workers will wear full personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, Tyvek suits, and gloves.
Proper Disposal: The removed asbestos siding is immediately placed in specially labeled, leak-proof bags or containers. These containers are then transported to a licensed asbestos disposal facility, where they are safely buried.
Final Cleaning and Air Monitoring: After the siding is removed, the work area is thoroughly cleaned using HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuums. Air samples are then collected and analyzed to ensure that asbestos fiber levels are within acceptable limits.

Choosing the Right Asbestos Abatement Contractor

Selecting a qualified and reputable asbestos abatement contractor is paramount. Here’s what to look for:

Licensing and Certification: Verify that the contractor is licensed and certified to perform asbestos abatement in your state or locality. Check their credentials with the relevant regulatory agencies.
Experience: Look for a contractor with a proven track record of successfully completing asbestos removal projects. Ask for references and check online reviews.
Insurance: Ensure the contractor carries adequate liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. This protects you from financial liability in case of accidents or injuries during the project.
Proper Equipment and Training: The contractor should use state-of-the-art equipment and employ trained and certified workers who follow strict safety protocols.
Clear Communication and Pricing: Obtain a detailed written estimate that clearly outlines the scope of work, the cost, and the payment terms. Ensure the contractor is responsive to your questions and concerns.

Cost Considerations

The cost of asbestos siding removal can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:

Size of the area: The larger the area covered by asbestos siding, the higher the cost.
Accessibility: If the siding is difficult to access, the removal process will be more complex and expensive.
Local regulations: Permitting and disposal fees can vary depending on your location.
Contractor fees: Different contractors may charge different rates for their services.

Expect to pay anywhere from $8 to $20 per square foot for professional asbestos siding removal. Get quotes from multiple contractors to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Remember that the lowest bid isn’t always the best option; prioritize experience and safety over cost.

What to Do After Asbestos Removal

Once the asbestos siding has been safely removed, you’ll need to decide on a replacement siding material. Popular choices include:

Vinyl siding: Affordable, durable, and low-maintenance.
Fiber cement siding: Durable, fire-resistant, and can mimic the look of wood.
Wood siding: Provides a classic and natural look but requires more maintenance.

Ensure that the replacement siding is installed by a qualified contractor who follows proper building codes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about asbestos siding removal:

FAQ 1: Can I just cover the asbestos siding instead of removing it?

While encapsulating (covering) asbestos siding is sometimes an option, it’s not always the best solution. It only addresses the problem temporarily and requires ongoing monitoring to ensure the encapsulation remains intact. Eventually, you’ll still need to remove the siding, and the encapsulation may complicate the process and potentially increase the cost. Consult with a qualified asbestos professional to determine if encapsulation is suitable for your specific situation.

FAQ 2: Is there any way to tell if my siding contains asbestos without testing it?

Unfortunately, there’s no reliable way to visually identify asbestos siding. While some older siding types may have telltale signs, such as a corrugated texture or a specific manufacturing date, the only way to be certain is to have a sample tested by a certified laboratory.

FAQ 3: What happens if I remove asbestos siding myself and get caught?

Removing asbestos siding without proper training, equipment, and permits is illegal in most jurisdictions. You could face hefty fines, penalties, and even legal action. More importantly, you’re putting yourself and others at serious health risk.

FAQ 4: How long does asbestos siding removal take?

The duration of the removal process depends on the size of the area, the complexity of the job, and the contractor’s efficiency. A typical residential project might take 2-5 days to complete.

FAQ 5: Do I need to leave my home during asbestos siding removal?

While not always required, it’s highly recommended that you and your family vacate the premises during asbestos siding removal. This minimizes your exposure to any potential asbestos fibers that may be released during the process.

FAQ 6: How do I know if the asbestos abatement contractor is reputable?

Check their licenses, certifications, insurance, and references. Ask about their experience with similar projects and review their online reputation. A reputable contractor will be transparent about their processes and willing to answer all your questions.

FAQ 7: Will removing asbestos siding increase my property value?

Removing asbestos siding can increase your property value. Many potential buyers are wary of homes with asbestos-containing materials, and removing them can make your home more attractive to buyers and eliminate a potential source of concern.

FAQ 8: What kind of respirator is required for asbestos removal?

Only a NIOSH-approved respirator with a HEPA filter is suitable for asbestos removal. The specific type of respirator will depend on the concentration of asbestos fibers in the air. Professional abatement workers are trained to use and maintain their respirators properly.

FAQ 9: Can I get financial assistance to help pay for asbestos siding removal?

Some states and local governments offer financial assistance programs to help homeowners with the cost of asbestos abatement. Contact your local health department or housing authority to inquire about available programs.

FAQ 10: How soon after removal is it safe to reoccupy the house?

It is safe to reoccupy the house after the final air clearance test shows that asbestos fiber levels are within acceptable limits. The abatement contractor will provide you with a written clearance report.

FAQ 11: What should I do if I suspect that my neighbor is illegally removing asbestos siding?

If you suspect that your neighbor is illegally removing asbestos siding, you should contact your local environmental protection agency or health department immediately. They can investigate the situation and take appropriate action.

FAQ 12: Are there alternative siding materials that are equally durable and fire-resistant as asbestos siding?

Yes, several alternative siding materials offer excellent durability and fire resistance, including fiber cement siding, metal siding, and some types of vinyl siding. These materials are asbestos-free and offer a safer and more modern aesthetic.

Conclusion

Removing asbestos siding is a complex and potentially hazardous process that requires the expertise of trained and certified professionals. By understanding the risks involved, following proper procedures, and hiring a reputable contractor, you can safely remove asbestos siding from your home and protect your health and the health of your community. Always prioritize safety and compliance with all applicable regulations.