Asbestos siding 101

Asbestos cement siding was a popular choice in New Zealand homes and commercial buildings from the 1940s through to the late 1980s. Valued for its durability, fire resistance, and low maintenance, it was commonly used in weatherboards, eaves linings, and exterior cladding. Today, however, asbestos is recognised as a serious health hazard, and anyone working with or around it must follow strict safety protocols.

 

Asbestos siding typically contains fibrous asbestos materials bonded with cement. These fibres are microscopic and can become airborne when disturbed. Inhalation of asbestos fibres is linked to serious respiratory illnesses, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. While intact siding generally poses little risk, deterioration, drilling, cutting, sanding, or removal can release hazardous fibres.

 

In New Zealand, asbestos cement products are commonly referred to as “fibro”, and many older houses still have fibro weatherboards, fences, or roof sheeting. Knowing how to identify and safely manage asbestos is critical for anyone in the construction or renovation industry.

 

There are a handful of key indicators of asbestos-containing siding. These include the age of the building, as homes built before the 1990s are more likely to contain asbestos. Fibro sheets are usually grey, fibrous, and brittle, and some are painted or textured. And beyond age and texture, product type can be a clue: weatherboards, flat panels, corrugated cladding, and eaves linings often contain asbestos.

 

Testing by a certified asbestos laboratory is the only definitive way to confirm the presence of asbestos. Never assume siding is safe based solely on appearance.

 

In New Zealand, WorkSafe NZ regulations require that asbestos be managed, not ignored. Builders and contractors must conduct a risk assessment before disturbing materials, use licensed asbestos removalists for high-risk removal, wear approved protective clothing and respiratory equipment, and minimise dust by wetting materials and using controlled techniques.

 

DIY removal is strongly discouraged. Homeowners are legally responsible for ensuring asbestos is handled safely, and contractors should always prioritise training and adherence to safety standards.

 

For intact asbestos siding, regular inspection and maintenance are often safer than removal. Keeping siding painted and free of cracks reduces fibre release. If siding is damaged, consult a licensed asbestos professional immediately.

 

Contractors should also educate clients on the risks and legal responsibilities. Proper signage, containment, and documentation during any work involving asbestos are essential to comply with regulations and protect both workers and residents.

 

While asbestos siding is now largely a historical material, it remains a present-day hazard in New Zealand’s built environment. Builders, renovators, and property managers must approach asbestos with knowledge, caution, and respect for the law.

 

By understanding how to identify, manage, and safely remove asbestos siding, construction professionals can protect their health and the safety of their clients.

 

Asbestos may be a relic of the past, but safety in dealing with it is very much a priority today. Knowledge, preparation, and adherence to WorkSafe regulations are non-negotiable for anyone working in homes or commercial buildings that still contain asbestos.