Hello!
We are about to have a new sheet metal roof installed over our old asbestos cement saddle roof (the tiles have seen better days). We live in a brick house from the 60s. The attic under the saddle roof is a half-attic/crawl space that is not really used.
The solution of laying sheet metal on the asbestos cement has been discussed as an economical and practical solution - where we are well aware that it may not be optimal in all respects, considering the hazard of asbestos.
However, now I hear a friend say; have you considered that asbestos cement contains radon? There is a risk that the radon level in the house increases if you cover the asbestos with sheet metal and essentially insulate it against the house?
Can any of you with knowledge enlighten me if this is true and if it has any health significance?
It should be added that the house underwent a radon measurement before we bought it, and the levels were reassuringly below the limit value.
Thank you very much in advance / Jörgen
We are about to have a new sheet metal roof installed over our old asbestos cement saddle roof (the tiles have seen better days). We live in a brick house from the 60s. The attic under the saddle roof is a half-attic/crawl space that is not really used.
The solution of laying sheet metal on the asbestos cement has been discussed as an economical and practical solution - where we are well aware that it may not be optimal in all respects, considering the hazard of asbestos.
However, now I hear a friend say; have you considered that asbestos cement contains radon? There is a risk that the radon level in the house increases if you cover the asbestos with sheet metal and essentially insulate it against the house?
Can any of you with knowledge enlighten me if this is true and if it has any health significance?
It should be added that the house underwent a radon measurement before we bought it, and the levels were reassuringly below the limit value.
Thank you very much in advance / Jörgen
It is likely not a problem. Eternit roofs are completely harmless until the tiles are broken, that's when the asbestos spreads.
Just keep in mind to check if your roof trusses can support an additional roof plus snow and wind loads. Considering how the winters have been in recent years, many roofs have been in danger.
Just keep in mind to check if your roof trusses can support an additional roof plus snow and wind loads. Considering how the winters have been in recent years, many roofs have been in danger.
