Asbestos siding is a type of siding that was commonly used in residences and commercial buildings up until the 1970s. It is made of a material that is resistant to heat and fire, making it an ideal choice for siding. However, asbestos is a known carcinogen, and exposure to asbestos fibers can cause a range of health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
In recent years, there has been an increased awareness of the dangers of asbestos exposure, and many insurance companies have begun to exclude coverage for asbestos siding from their policies. Some insurance companies will still provide coverage for asbestos siding if it is in good condition and has been properly maintained, but they may require policyholders to purchase an additional rider to cover any potential damages.
Asbestos siding can be a tricky situation for insurance companies. On one hand, they want to provide coverage for their policyholders, but on the other hand, they don't want to be held liable for any health problems that may result from exposure to the asbestos fibers. If you have asbestos siding on your home or commercial building, it's important to check with your insurance company to see if they provide coverage for asbestos siding.
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How do I dispose of asbestos siding?
There are several ways to dispose of asbestos siding, but the most important thing is to make sure that it is done safely so that no one is exposed to the harmful fibers. One way to dispose of asbestos siding is to bury it in a lined landfill. Another way is to incinerate it in a special furnace designed for asbestos.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is asbestos-cement siding?
Asbestos-cement siding is a type of siding made from a mixture of Portland cement reinforced with asbestos fibers. The Portland cement binds asbestos fibers into a hard mass. While asbestos is fireproof and can help limit or stop the spread of fire, the asbestos was actually added to the cement as a binding agent to lend strength to the material.
Does fiber cement siding contain asbestos?
No, fiber cement siding does not contain asbestos.
Is asbestos siding dangerous to live in?
Yes, asbestos-containing siding can be extremely dangerous to live in if it's not properly maintained. EPA warns that "maintaining asbestos-cement siding is particularly important to ensure that the material does not release fibers and dust into the environment over time." If there is any visible sign of damage or deterioration on your home's ACM, you should have it assessed and fixed as soon as possible.
What should I do about asbestos in my siding?
If you decide to remove your asbestos-containing siding, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself and the environment. Follow these tips: 1) Wear a respirator with a N95 filter when removing the siding. 2) Avoid contact with the asbestos while it’s still on the house. Hog handles, saw blades, and even vacuum cleaners can release asbestos fibres. Instead, wait until the siding is off the house before touching or moving it. 3) Rake out any loose asbestos before discarding it. Use a proper disposal method if possible, such as placing the asbestos in a burial pit lined with dirt or rock. Do not burn or incinerate the material -- this could spread harmful chemicals into the air.
Does your cement siding contain asbestos?
Unfortunately, old style cement siding shingles may contain asbestos. If you want to be sure and have your siding tested, please call a professional inspectors.
Sources
- https://www.admiral.com/magazine/guides/home/asbestos-home-insurance
- https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-remove-asbestos-siding-safely-1822322
- https://allinsurancefaq.com/home-insurance-companies-that-cover-asbestos-siding/
- https://howtodispose.info/dispose-asbestos-siding/
- https://todayshomeowner.com/video/how-to-remove-and-dispose-of-asbestos-siding-and-roofing/
- https://allinsurancefaq.com/what-insurance-companies-will-cover-asbestos-siding/
- https://www.4feldco.com/articles/insurance-cover-siding-damage/
- https://econosurance.com/what-insurance-companies-will-cover-asbestos-siding
- https://www.wikihow.com/Dispose-of-Asbestos
- https://www.reddit.com/r/HomeImprovement/comments/99kk4k/finding_home_insurance_for_possible_asbestos/
- https://www.policygenius.com/homeowners-insurance/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-asbestos-removal/
- https://home-insur-ance-companies-that-cover-asbestos-siding.homewarrantyhelpww.com/
- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/asbestos-how-should-i-dispose-asbestos-waste-david-webb
- https://www.finder.com.au/asbestos-home-insurance
- https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/52/topics/246931-insurance-for-single-family-home-with-asbestos-siding
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