If your property was built before the late 1990s — especially between the 1960s and 1980s — there's a very real chance your garage roof contains asbestos. Whether it’s a standalone structure, part of a shared driveway, or an outbuilding at the back of the garden, these old roofs were often built using asbestos cement sheets due to their affordability, strength, and fire resistance.

The problem? Many of these roofs are still in place today, and homeowners often don’t realise the risk until they plan renovations, list their home for sale, or notice the roof has begun to deteriorate.

Asbestos was widely used in the UK construction industry before being banned in 1999. In garage roofs, it was most often found in:

• Corrugated cement roofing sheets
• Asbestos soffits or bargeboards
• Roof tiles and panels
• Roofing felt and linings in some cases

The reason? It was cheap, easy to mould, fire-resistant, and weatherproof. It was also added to cement to strengthen it — particularly useful in single-skin outbuildings like garages.

You can’t identify asbestos with certainty just by looking — but there are some common indicators:

Corrugated grey/white cement sheets

Often seen in garages built between the 1960s–80s

Rough or fibrous texture

No visible manufacturer markings or safety stamps

Garage built or last roofed before 1999

Moss or algae growing on ageing, brittle sheets

⚠️ Important: Asbestos fibres are microscopic. Even if the roof looks solid or sealed, it could still pose a risk if disturbed.

❓ Is an asbestos garage roof dangerous if I leave it alone?

Generally, asbestos cement is low-risk if undamaged. But over time, cracks, leaks, weathering and age-related breakdown can release fibres. If the roof is in poor condition, it's time to act.

❓ Can I paint or seal an asbestos roof instead of removing it?

Sealing might slow deterioration but it’s not a long-term solution, and disturbing the surface to clean or paint it can release fibres. Removal is the safest option.

❓ How do I know for sure if it’s asbestos?

The only way to confirm is with a lab analysis. Our team can take a safe sample and get results fast.

❓ What if I accidentally disturbed it?

Stop immediately. Do not sweep or wash down the area. Contact us for clean-up advice and professional support.

The Hidden Pain Points of Leaving It Too Long

Still weighing up whether to take action? Here's what some homeowners find out the hard way:

• Property Sale Falls Through: Buyers pull out due to the cost and fear of asbestos
• DIY Mishaps: Cracked panels during home improvement projects lead to dangerous exposure
• Unwanted Costs: Emergency removal after roof failure is often more expensive
• Legal Responsibilities: Landlords must ensure their properties are asbestos-safe
• Don’t let a hidden risk turn into a costly or dangerous surprise later down the line.

✅ Book a visual inspection or survey

✅ Arrange testing if you’re unsure

✅ Remove or replace the roof with trained professionals

✅ Get certified waste disposal and documentation for peace of mind

At Asbestos Garage Removal, we specialise solely in the safe removal, collection, and disposal of asbestos garages and garage roofs. That means:

• Fully  insured
• Same-day and scheduled removals
• Clean, quick, and safe working methods
• All paperwork and legal compliance included
• Based right here in the Midlands

We offer no-obligation advice and asbestos testing across the region. Whether you just want answers or you’re ready for safe removal — we’re here to help.

🌐 Visit www.asbestos-garageremoval.co.uk to request a quote or ask us a question.

Don’t take chances with asbestos. Get peace of mind — and your space back — safely and legally.