Assessment and Testing
Suspect material can be sampled and tested by an appropriate professional so that you know what you are dealing with.
Asbestos Roof Removal Launceston
Asbestos Roof Removal and Replacement in Launceston, Done Safely
Removing and replacing an asbestos roof in Launceston needs a careful, legal process. Corrugated cement sheet was widely used on homes and sheds, and disturbing it can release dangerous fibres.
In Tasmania, larger removals of bonded asbestos must be done by a licensed removalist. We make sure the correct licence holder carries out that work, then arrange the new roof.
- Assessment before removal
- Licensed removal when required
- Compliant disposal
- New metal or tile roof
Scope
What the Service Covers
Safe Removal
Sheets are wetted, removed whole where possible and wrapped for disposal, using proper controls.
New Roof Installation
Once the area is clear, a new steel or tile roof is installed with new flashings.
Where it is found
Where Older Asbestos Products Appear
Corrugated Roof Sheets
Common on houses, garages, sheds and farm buildings of older construction.
Eaves and Gables
Flat cement sheet was often used under eaves and in gable ends.
Fittings and Flues
Some older flues, ridge pieces and vents can also contain asbestos.
New roof options
What to Install After Removal
Choosing the replacement is easier once the roof is off and the frame has been checked.
| Option | Characteristics | Typical applications | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorbond steel | Light steel with a coloured finish | Most houses and sheds after removal | Often an easy fit on frames that carried cement sheet |
| Zincalume steel | Plain metallic-coated sheet | Sheds and outbuildings | Lower cost with a plain appearance |
| Tile | Concrete or terracotta | Homes where tile suits the style | Much heavier, so the frame needs to be checked first |
Safety rules
What You Should Not Do
Disturbing asbestos cement can release fibres and put your family and neighbours at risk.
Do Not Water-Blast
High-pressure cleaning breaks up the surface and spreads contaminated water.
Do Not Cut or Drill
Power tools create fine dust. Do not use them on suspect sheets.
Do Not Walk on It
Old cement sheets are brittle, and falls through them can be fatal.
Do Not Dump It
Asbestos must be wrapped and taken only to a facility that accepts it.
Removal process
How Removal and Replacement Works
- 1
Inspection
We look at the roof and arrange testing if the material is unknown.
- 2
Written Plan
You get a scope for removal, disposal and the new roof.
- 3
Notifications and Set-Up
Required notices are lodged and the work area is prepared.
- 4
Removal and Clearance
Sheets are removed, wrapped and disposed of with required checks.
- 5
New Roof
Battens are repaired where needed and the new roof is installed.
Rules in Tasmania
What the Regulations Say
Asbestos work is covered by WorkSafe Tasmania, and these basics are worth knowing.
Over 10 Square Metres
Removing more than 10 square metres of non-friable asbestos requires a Class B licence.
Smaller Amounts
Smaller quantities must still be removed in accordance with the code of practice.
Who to Ask
WorkSafe Tasmania is the right contact for licensing questions, and council can advise on local disposal.
Common projects
Jobs We Are Asked About
Shed
Old garage with a cement sheet roof
Sheets removed and replaced with a new steel roof.
House
Rear section of an older home
Cement roof removed and new sheets tied into the existing roof.
Farm
Large outbuilding roof
Staged removal and new long-run steel roofing.
Service areas
Asbestos Roof Removal Across Launceston
We arrange removal and new roofs in these suburbs.
Related services
Roofing Help After Removal
Roofing Services
General advice on any type of roof.
View serviceRoof Repairs
Not sure of a roof's material? Do not repair it yet.
View serviceRoof Replacement
The same process for non-asbestos roofs.
View serviceResidential Roof Installation
Installing a new home roof on a fresh frame.
View serviceRoof Restoration
Tile roofs only. Cement sheet should not be restored.
View serviceRoof Maintenance
Inspect the new roof regularly once it is up.
View serviceCommercial Roofing
Asbestos sheet on commercial buildings needs planning.
View serviceColorbond Roofing Installation
The most common replacement after removal.
View serviceTile Roofing Installation
A heavier option where the frame allows.
View servicePricing
Asbestos Roof Removal Cost
Costs reflect the area, the condition of the sheets, disposal and required safety controls. We separate removal and replacement in the quote, so you can see both.
| Small shed or garage | Depends on area, licence need and disposal |
|---|---|
| House roof section | Includes tying the new roof into the old |
| Large outbuilding | Priced on area, access and staging |
Questions
Asbestos Roof Removal: FAQs
How do I know if my roof contains asbestos?
You cannot tell by looking at it. Have a sample tested by an appropriate laboratory, and assume it contains asbestos until you know otherwise.
Is an asbestos roof dangerous if left alone?
Sheets in good condition are lower risk if left undisturbed. Damaged, weathered or broken sheets should be assessed professionally.
Can I remove a small asbestos roof myself?
Tasmanian licensing rules are based on area, but smaller jobs still have to follow the code of practice. Ask WorkSafe Tasmania what applies before starting.
Can I paint or coat an asbestos roof?
Do not clean or prepare it with pressure or abrasive methods. Get professional advice before doing anything to the surface.
Where does removed asbestos go?
It must be wrapped and taken to a facility that accepts it. Disposal details are included in your written scope.
Next step
Got an Old Cement Sheet Roof?
Do not disturb it. Call or send photos from the ground and we will explain the safest way forward.
Rules and safety
What Homeowners Should Know About Old Cement Roofs
Bonded asbestos cement was a popular building material for much of the twentieth century. Homes and sheds built before the late 1980s are the most likely to have it.
Weathering and damage can loosen the surface, which is why moss removal and pressure cleaning are particularly risky. If a sheet has broken, keep people away and do not sweep up the debris.
Removal is a planned job. Done correctly, it leaves you with a clean frame ready for a new roof and one less hazard on the property.