Removing asbestos roof underlay

If you own a house in Flanders built before 2001, there is a chance that under the roof tiles there is a layer of asbestos-containing sheets. These sheets, often called menuiserite or asbestos-containing sarking boards, were installed in the past to finish the underside of the roof. They are sturdy, water-repellent and fire-resistant, but they contain asbestos fibres. As long as they remain intact and you don't saw or drill into them, the risk is limited. But during a roof renovation or if the sheets become damaged, fibres are released. Then it's time to have them removed.

Asbestos sarking is a different story from asbestos corrugated sheets. Corrugated sheets are usually found on garages, sheds or barns, and they are often fitted more loosely. Sarking boards are installed under your roof tiles and form an extra layer between the tiles and the insulation or the interior space. This makes their removal more delicate. You first have to remove the roof tiles and then take out the boards, while releasing as little dust and as few fibres as possible. This is a job for a licensed asbestos removal contractor, not for an ordinary roofer.

At Credim, we work in accordance with Flemish legislation. We master the three techniques prescribed by the government: the simple handling, the glove bag and the hermetic zone. Which technique we use depends on the condition of the material and its location. If the sarking is still in good condition and is bonded, a simple handling may suffice. If it is damaged or friable, we set up a hermetic zone with negative pressure.

Removing asbestos sarking yourself is not a good idea. The law allows private individuals to remove small pieces of bonded asbestos themselves, but sarking boards are rarely undamaged. Moreover, you have to unscrew or pry them loose, which can release fibres. Transport to the recycling centre is also subject to rules. You are not allowed to transport friable asbestos yourself, and there is also a maximum for bonded asbestos. Leave that to us. We take care of the correct packaging, transport and processing at a licensed company.

Have you had an asbestos certificate drawn up by a certified asbestos expert? Then you know where the asbestos is and what condition it is in. Based on that certificate, we can make a targeted quote. No certificate? No problem, but we recommend having one drawn up first. This way you have a better idea of what is under your roof and whether there are any other asbestos applications. An asbestos certificate is, by the way, mandatory when selling a house built before 2001, and by 2032 every owner of such a building must have one.

When you are planning a roof renovation, it is wise to have the asbestos sarking removed in the same operation. This way you avoid having to put up scaffolding again later or lift the roof tiles. Moreover, you can then tackle the insulation at the same time. If you combine asbestos removal with roof insulation, you may qualify for a supplement within the Mijn VerbouwPremie. The conditions do change, so be sure to check the Mijn VerbouwPremie website for the current amount and income requirements.

At Credim, we work throughout Flanders. We come by, assess the situation and give you honest advice. No prices in advance, because every site is different. But we do provide a clear schedule and a neat handover. You can find us in Stabroek, but we travel all over Flanders. Call us on 09 396 64 56 or email info@credim.be. Tell us what you have found, and we will tell you what the options are.