What Is Asbestos Cement?
Asbestos cement is a building material made by mixing asbestos fibres with cement to create strong, durable sheets and moulded products.
It was widely used throughout the 20th century due to its strength, fire resistance, and low cost, and is still present in many buildings constructed before the 1999 asbestos ban.
Where Is Asbestos Cement Commonly Found?
Asbestos cement was used in a wide range of applications and is often found externally on buildings, including:
- Garage and warehouse roof sheets (often corrugated)
- Wall cladding and panels
- Gutters and downpipes
- Cement flue pipes and ventilation systems
- Water tanks and drainage pipes
These materials are still commonly found in older homes, farms, and commercial buildings across Yorkshire.
What Does Asbestos Cement Look Like?
Asbestos cement is typically:
- Grey in colour (similar to standard concrete)
- Hard and dense in structure
- Often formed into flat sheets or corrugated roofing panels
- Weathered or moss-covered if exposed externally
One of the most recognisable forms is corrugated garage roofing sheets, which were widely used across the UK.
It can be difficult to identify visually, especially when aged or painted, so testing is always recommended.
Is Asbestos Cement Dangerous?
Asbestos cement is generally considered a lower-risk material because the asbestos fibres are tightly bound within the cement.
However, it can still pose a risk if:
- The material is broken, drilled, or cut
- It becomes heavily weathered or damaged
- Work is carried out without proper controls
When disturbed, asbestos fibres can be released into the air and inhaled, which is where the danger lies.
What Should You Do If You Find Asbestos Cement?
If you suspect asbestos cement in your property:
- Do not disturb it
- Avoid pressure washing, cutting, or breaking the material
- Arrange an asbestos survey or testing
- Seek professional advice before any work is carried out
In many cases, asbestos cement can be safely managed if it is in good condition. If removal is required, it must be done in line with current regulations.
Need Help Identifying Asbestos Cement?
At Complete Asbestos Surveys, we carry out asbestos surveys, testing, and removal management across Yorkshire. If you’re unsure whether a material contains asbestos, we can take samples and provide fast, reliable results so you can move forward safely.