All You Need to Know About Asbestos Roofs
You've got questions, we've got answers! With our expertise and love for historic homes, we've spent a lot of time working on asbestos roof projects throughout Omaha & Lincoln, Nebraska. Today we're going to answer some of our most commonly asked asbestos questions!
What's the big deal about asbestos roofs?
Asbestos was the "it" roofing material in the early 1900s. It was extremely durable and cost efficient along with providing an aesthetically pleasing look. Fast forward to the 1960s and research showed the fibers posed a dangerous medical risk. Asbestos has been identified as a known human carcinogen (cancer causing) which is while extreme care and caution must be taken when removing the material which can create harmful dust and debris. When considering your asbestos removal project, do your research and be sure to choose a roofing company with experience and integrity for following the state regulations for permitting and disposal (Ahem, Rooforia!).
Can asbestos roofs be repaired?
According to The Nebraska Asbestos Program Regulations typically no. Asbestos tiles are no longer sold for repairs. You may be able to paint or seal the tiles depending on the actual condition of the roof and your budget for repair vs. replacement. But if you are looking for a more long term solution, a roof replacement might be the answer.
Find out more regarding regulations here:http://dhhs.ne.gov/Asbestos%20Documents/FactSheet-Shingles.pdfhttps://lincoln.ne.gov/city/health/environ/Air/forms/asbestosregfactsheet.pdf
How much does an asbestos roof cost?
Well it depends... The most annoying answer to a price question ever! Sometimes you just want an answer. Is it $1,000 or a million?! Here is a VERY ballpark answer that may help in your decision-making process. Take your roof's square footage and multiply by 10. Depending on what you replace the asbestos with, usually slate, synthetic slate or a designer asphalt shingle, you may fall right around that price for the total project.
I'm in LOVE with a home that has an asbestos roof. What should I know before making an offer?
When looking for you next home ask yourself this question, is this your forever or long-term home? Know that when you purchase a home with an asbestos roof it is probably getting close to the end of its life. Check for signs the roof has been leaking, newly painted ceilings, mismatched roof patches, lots of spots that may have been caused by hail. Plan for a roof replacement expense emergency fund for a roof replacement in the next 2-5 years.
It may be difficult to have the roof insured or homeowner’s insurance may be very expensive. Insurance companies know asbestos roofs are expensive to replace which is why they may deny coverage, offer homeowners insurance with no roof coverage, actual cash value only policies (ACV) or provide coverage at a very high cost.
Sellers may not know the roof has hail damage and many are usually more than willing to file a claim if that's the case. You can negotiate who pays the deductible and have the funds escrowed or set up an agreement on how the claim will be handled before closing. We'd be happy to provide you with additional tips and tools to get this done the right way.
Check with us on the best insurance companies to work with on asbestos roof claims and companies that offer the best rates for coverage, we have some recommendations!
How can an asbestos roof be replaced through insurance?
Yes, maybe. If the roof has hail or wind damage and is covered under the current homeowner’s insurance policy, you can file an insurance claim. We recommend having the roof inspected first and ask us for an honest opinion before filing a claim. You cannot file a claim just because the roof is old! Make sure you have someone who knows the difference. Be ready for negotiations with your insurance provider. They may initially deny coverage or give you a low settlement hoping you accept. Have someone on your side that knows when it’s worth fighting for and has a track record of successful claim settlements.
Contact us with any additional questions about your roof! We're always happy to provide you with a complimentary consultation for your project.
Call or text 402.281.2891
Email us info@rooforiaexteriors.com