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Roof Replacement Asbestos: What Homeowners Need to Know Before Replacing an Asbestos Roof
If you own an older home, especially one built before the 1980s, there’s a chance that your roofing system contains asbestos—a once-common material praised for its durability, heat resistance, and fireproofing properties. But now, homeowners are learning that this “miracle material” can pose significant health and legal risks. If you’re searching for information on “roof replacement asbestos,” you’re likely facing a critical decision—and this guide is here to help.
This in-depth article explains what asbestos roofing is, how to tell if your roof contains asbestos, the dangers involved, your legal responsibilities, how the removal and replacement process works, and how S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, serving Jefferson, Youngstown, Cleveland, and all of Northeast Ohio, can assist you safely and affordably.
What Is Asbestos Roofing?
Asbestos was widely used in construction from the 1920s through the late 1970s. It was added to roofing materials like:
- Corrugated asbestos cement roofing sheets
- Asbestos shingles
- Roof tiles
- Roofing felt and coatings
- Flashing, mastics, and sealants
These products were durable, weather-resistant, and affordable. However, it’s now known that asbestos fibers—if disturbed—can become airborne and cause life-threatening illnesses, such as:
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
- Lung cancer
Why Asbestos Is Dangerous in Roofing
Asbestos is not harmful unless it is damaged, disturbed, or deteriorated. When that happens, microscopic fibers are released into the air and can be inhaled. These fibers can lodge in the lungs, leading to health issues decades later.
Unfortunately, roofs are constantly exposed to the elements—meaning asbestos roofing materials naturally degrade over time.
In Northeast Ohio, harsh winters, heavy snow, freeze-thaw cycles, high winds, and seasonal storms only accelerate this deterioration, increasing the chances of asbestos exposure.
How to Know If Your Roof Contains Asbestos
Not all old roofs contain asbestos—but many built before 1985 do. Here are signs that your roof might contain asbestos:
- The Age of Your Home
- Built between 1920 and 1985? It’s possible or even likely your roofing has asbestos-based materials.
- Roofing Type
- Flat, corrugated, or slate-look roofing shingles on older homes may be cement-asbestos composite.
- Manufacturer and Branding
- Some asbestos roofing sheets are stamped with manufacturer names like Johns-Manville or contain codes indicating ACMs (asbestos-containing materials).
- Professional Testing
- The only way to know for sure is to hire a certified asbestos inspector who can test a sample.
Never attempt to take a sample yourself. Disturbing the material without proper protection can expose you and your household to danger.
Can You Replace a Roof That Has Asbestos?
Yes, you can—but it must be done safely and in compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Replacing an asbestos roof involves:
- Hiring certified asbestos abatement professionals
- Following OSHA, EPA, and Ohio EPA guidelines
- Disposing of asbestos in approved facilities
- Ensuring safe re-roofing with modern materials
S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC works with licensed asbestos abatement partners to safely remove old roofing before installing beautiful, long-lasting new roofs—whether you live in Jefferson, Cleveland, Youngstown, or anywhere in Northeast Ohio.
What Happens During an Asbestos Roof Replacement?
Here’s an overview of the process:
1. Initial Inspection
We begin with a roof assessment to determine the condition of your roof and the likelihood of asbestos materials. If necessary, we coordinate testing with certified asbestos inspectors.
2. Permit and Planning
If asbestos is confirmed, we create a removal and replacement plan. This includes:
- Notifying state and local agencies
- Securing necessary permits
- Preparing safety protocols
3. Asbestos Removal
Only licensed professionals can legally and safely remove asbestos. The area will be sealed off, and specialized equipment (like HEPA filters and protective suits) will be used. The roofing material is then:
- Carefully detached
- Double-bagged or wrapped
- Disposed of in a certified landfill
4. Site Clean-Up
The entire area is thoroughly cleaned to ensure no fibers are left behind.
5. New Roof Installation
Once the old asbestos roofing is removed, S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC installs your new roofing system using Owens Corning Duration shingles or other top-tier materials. You’ll have a safer, more energy-efficient, and beautiful roof in just days.
Legal Requirements in Ohio for Asbestos Roofing Removal
In the state of Ohio, asbestos regulations are strictly enforced by:
- Ohio EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
- Ashtabula County and city permitting offices
You are required to:
- Use a licensed asbestos abatement contractor
- File notification paperwork at least 10 working days before removal
- Properly dispose of all ACMs at an approved facility
- Ensure air quality safety during and after removal
Failure to comply can lead to:
- Heavy fines
- Lawsuits
- Health risks for neighbors and occupants
Costs of Replacing an Asbestos Roof
Replacing an asbestos roof involves two major costs:
- Asbestos Removal
- Typically ranges from $50 to $120 per square (100 sq ft) depending on the size, access, and type of asbestos material.
- New Roof Installation
- Asphalt shingle roofing costs between $400 to $800 per square, including materials, labor, and warranties.
Example Estimate:
For a 2,000 square foot roof (20 squares):
- Asbestos removal: ~$2,000 – $5,000
- New roof install: ~$8,000 – $16,000
- Total: $10,000 – $21,000
S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC offers flexible financing to help make asbestos roof replacement more affordable.
Financing Options for Roof Replacement
Replacing an asbestos roof can feel like a financial burden—but putting it off can be much more expensive if you face legal fines or health emergencies. That’s why we offer multiple financing options, including:
- No-interest plans
- Low-monthly-payment options
- Deferred payment for qualified homeowners
You can qualify in minutes—no obligations.
Why Replace an Asbestos Roof Now?
If you’re asking “Should I replace my asbestos roof now?”, the answer is usually yes—especially if it’s damaged or aging. Here’s why:
- Health Risks: Exposure to asbestos fibers is life-threatening.
- Home Sale Challenges: Homes with known asbestos may lose resale value or struggle to pass inspection.
- Insurance Denials: Some insurers won’t cover asbestos-containing properties.
- Peace of Mind: Protect your family and your property for decades to come.
Choosing the Right Roofing Company
When dealing with asbestos, you need more than a typical roofer—you need a team that understands the complexity, legal requirements, and safety protocols involved.
S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC is trusted across Ashtabula, Lake, Mahoning, and Cuyahoga Counties because we offer:
- ✅ Free roof inspections
- ✅ Coordination with licensed asbestos removal pros
- ✅ Owens Corning Preferred Contractor status
- ✅ Highly trained crews
- ✅ Transparent estimates and timelines
- ✅ Financing options
- ✅ Local, family-owned reliability
Real Stories from Northeast Ohio Homeowners
“I had no idea my roof contained asbestos until S&K did a free inspection. They walked me through every step, brought in a certified abatement team, and installed a gorgeous new roof within a week. Absolute professionals!”
– Sarah M., Jefferson, OH
“S&K made a stressful situation easy. The financing helped too, because I didn’t have to pay it all at once. Best contractors I’ve ever worked with.”
– John R., Youngstown, OH
How to Get Started
Whether you suspect your roof contains asbestos or you know it’s time for an upgrade, we’re here to help. Replacing an asbestos roof requires careful planning, but with the right partner, it can be handled quickly, affordably, and safely.
Your next step? Schedule a free inspection today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I tell if my roof contains asbestos?
A: The only way to know for sure is with lab testing by a certified professional. Do not attempt to test it yourself.
Q: Is it illegal to remove asbestos roofing myself?
A: In most cases, yes. It’s also extremely dangerous. State and federal laws require licensed asbestos abatement contractors.
Q: How long does asbestos roof replacement take?
A: The full process—from inspection to new roof—typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, depending on permits and weather.
Q: Will my insurance cover asbestos roof removal?
A: Usually not. However, if your roof was damaged by a storm or fallen tree, your homeowner’s insurance may cover removal and replacement. We can help file claims.
Contact S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC Today
Don’t wait for a health scare or city violation notice to act. If your roof contains asbestos—or you suspect it might—S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC is your go-to team for safe, code-compliant, and beautiful roof replacements in Northeast Ohio.
📞 Call us now at [Phone Number]
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📍 Serving Jefferson, Youngstown, Cleveland, and surrounding communities
Trust your roof—and your health—to the pros.
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