Roof & exterior
Safely monitor legacy asbestos-cement siding
Older cementitious siding may contain asbestos. Intact material is often best left undisturbed, while cutting, sanding, scraping and aggressive cleaning can release fibers.
Recommended timingObserve every spring; assess before disturbance
What to do
- Treat unverified legacy cement siding as potentially asbestos-containing until appropriate testing or records establish otherwise.
- From the ground, look for cracked, broken, loose or crumbling units and for failed flashing, sealant or drainage that repeatedly wets the wall.
- Do not sand, grind, drill, saw, scrape, pressure-wash or dry-brush suspected asbestos-cement material.
- Before remodeling, removal, intrusive repair or aggressive cleaning, consult a properly qualified asbestos professional and follow applicable rules.
- Keep records of testing, repairs and the exact replacement material for future owners and contractors.
Do not collect a sample or clean up suspect debris without professional direction. Avoid the area and prevent further disturbance.
Official guidance and sources
Product instructions and local requirements take priority for the equipment or material installed at your home.