Fibre Cement or Asbestos Cement – How to Tell the Difference

In Northern Ireland asbestos fibre cement was extensively used during construction before the year 2000. It was commonly used on soffits, outbuilding roofing, wall linings and warehouse roofing. Sometimes it can be difficult to tell the difference between modern fibre sheets and dangerous asbestos versions.

Asbestos Cement

Asbestos can be found in buildings constructed before the year 2000. It is generally considered safe if it is in good condition and left untouched. When it is disturbed asbestos fibres can be released into the air.

Asbestos cement was sold using various brand names and is still present across the UK on older buildings and outhouses.

What About Modern Fibre Cement

Modern fibre sheeting don’t contain any asbestos because we now know the dangers associated with it. It is made using water, cement, sand and non-asbestos fibres with similar properties.

This material is mostly used as roofing sheets, cladding and wall linings.

Asbestos Testing

How do you tell that your material contains asbestos?

It can help by looking at the texture. Some asbestos based corrugated roofing had a golf ball like texture imprinted. Although if it does not then do not assume asbestos is not present.

Keep an eye for any logo or branding on the product. You can then search for this on a search engine and very quickly you might find information on that brand or company product.

Remember anything installed before the year 2000 should be treated with caution.

The only full-proof way of knowing whether the material contains asbestos or not is asbestos testing.

Contact Us to find out more, we cover Northern Ireland.

Your Local Asbestos Specialists

If in doubt ALWAYS consult a qualified surveyor. Never put yourself or other in danger. We are always happy to help and offer asbestos surveys Northern Ireland wide.

Our team of professional asbestos surveyors can help you get an asbestos register in place so that asbestos related issues are avoided.