Water butt from asbestos roof

[Andypandi]

Thanks for your input. I do realise I need to research more into it. I am not sure how old the garage is but the house was built in the 30's. I'm sure it wasn't built at the same time as the roof doesn't look damaged.

[gardenpassion]

Andy,

Slow down a little and do some research, some forms of asbestos are more of a problem than others.

Asbestos cement roofing panels are extremely low risk as the fibres are locked in the cement. The risk is so low that you can use a general builder or even DIY for removal.

The fact you do not need a licensed contractor should give you some idea just how low the risk is.

Bournmouth council even provide disposal facilities for roof sheeting upto 6 sheets a time at Millhams Community Recycling Centre BH11 9LQ.

This stuff only becomes dangerous if you decide to drill it, or abrade it in anyway even then you have to breath it in as it attacks the lungs.

The HSE (not known for a relaxed attitude) and most local councils have advice sheets for the DIY removal of the stuff.

Personally I would be more concerned with what the roof as been covered with for instance it could well be a tar based product rather than whats underneath it.

I don't know how old your garage is but the sheets usually have a working life of some 50-60years before they start to deteriorate, and only then would they become dangerous unless of course there is some accidental damage.

SORRY BUT I TOTALLY DISAGREE WITH THIS COMMENT. ~ANY risk with asbestos is not worth the risk. I am a Macmillan nurse and see enough to know that Mesothelioma is a disease to avoid at all costs if you can. Please just find an alternative and don't risk your health.

[Potstubsdustbins]

The HSE and experts in the asbestos industry disagree with you.

Colin

[gardenpassion]

The HSE and experts in the asbestos industry disagree with you.

Colin

OK, will stand down, as no desire to fall out with anyone on forum, Maybe being too over cautious but there with good reason, I can assure you.

[Potstubsdustbins]

I have no doubt of the sincerity of your post and I totally agree with your comments on caution.

And don't apologise for making a valid comment after all you were only trying to help someone and thats what this forums all about.

I worked with asbestos back in the 1960s in the heating industry and know the reckless abandon with which it was treated. The legacy which that era left was and is appalling.

Having watched my father die of cancer I also know what a terrible disease it is. That also taught me the value of Macmillan nurses some of whom helped with my fathers palliative care at home.

Keep up your good work you patients really do value your efforts I can assure you.

Colin

[gardenpassion]

I have no doubt of the sincerity of your post and I totally agree with your comments on caution.

And don't apologise for making a valid comment after all you were only trying to help someone and thats what this forums all about.

I worked with asbestos back in the 1960s in the heating industry and know the reckless abandon with which it was treated. The legacy which that era left was and is appalling.

Having watched my father die of cancer I also know what a terrible disease it is. That also taught me the value of Macmillan nurses some of whom helped with my fathers palliative care at home.

Keep up your good work you patients really do value your efforts I can assure you.

Colin

Thank you for your comments and I am so very sorry about your father. My comments were made with a rather emotional bent instead of rational, which you have been able to offer in spite of your difficult experiences. The use of asbestos has so much to answer for, I work in an area with a high usage in the 60's and see a lot of the dreadful repercussions, hence the responses I made.

All good things to you Poststubsdustbins.