At Yorkshire Roofing, we understand that painting asbestos can feel like a daunting task—but with the right approach, it can be carried out safely and effectively. Whether you’re looking to enhance the longevity of asbestos roof sheets on a garage, industrial building, or older cladding, applying a professional asbestos roof coating is one of the most effective ways to protect your property and minimise the release of harmful asbestos fibres.

Before any work begins, it’s crucial to inspect the condition of the surface. If the asbestos-containing material is in good condition—not cracked, broken, or flaking—it can usually be sealed using a specially designed asbestos roof paint. Applying two coats of the correct asbestos sealant ensures that the fibres are contained, reducing the risk of asbestos exposure and providing you with complete peace of mind.

Preparation is everything. We always begin by giving the area a low-pressure wash, then carefully seal joints and gaps using duct tape. This prevents the material from becoming exposed and releasing dust. All debris must be handled as asbestos waste, following regulations to the letter. Depending on the type of surface, we use a brush, roller, or airless sprayer for easy application, excellent durability, and an even finish.

At Yorkshire Roofing, we’re committed to helping building owners maintain safety and value without the need for costly removal. In the next section, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about handling an asbestos roof properly.

Asbestos roof

If your property features an asbestos roof, you’re not alone—many industrial buildings, older homes, and outbuildings across the UK were built using asbestos products due to their fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, over time, exposure to weather and general wear can degrade these materials, increasing the risk of asbestos fibres becoming airborne.

At Yorkshire Roofing, we frequently work with clients looking to safely maintain or upgrade their asbestos roof without undertaking full-scale asbestos removal. The key lies in applying the right roof paint or asbestos roof coating, which helps to seal and protect the surface, preventing further degradation and reducing the potential for harmful dust.

We use waterproof paint specifically formulated to adhere to asbestos cement, providing both protection from the elements and a barrier against UV light, which can cause surface breakdown. By sealing the roof, we can extend its life while significantly lowering the risk of asbestos exposure for those working or living beneath it.

We always advise building owners to act at the first signs of wear. The earlier you cover and protect the roof, the easier and more cost-effective the maintenance becomes. In many cases, professional coating not only improves safety but also enhances the overall appearance of your property.

Asbestos fibres

One of the biggest dangers associated with any asbestos-containing material is the release of asbestos fibres. These microscopic fibres are invisible to the naked eye and, when inhaled, can pose serious long-term health risks, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung-related illnesses. That’s why, at Yorkshire Roofing, our primary goal is always to prevent the disturbance of asbestos and minimise the release of fibres during any painting or coating work.

Even seemingly small tasks, like scrubbing or sanding a roof, can dislodge fibres and create airborne dust. That’s why appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is non-negotiable when working with these materials. Using high-quality asbestos sealant, we can lock in fibres and stop them from escaping into the air during maintenance, waterproofing, or cleaning.

It’s also vital to manage debris responsibly. Any flakes or residues generated before painting asbestos should be collected, double-bagged, and clearly marked as asbestos waste. We take every measure to prevent fibres from becoming exposed, especially in high-traffic areas or places where people might unknowingly come into contact with the material.

Asbestos paint

When it comes to sealing and protecting asbestos-containing materials, not just any paint will do. At Yorkshire Roofing, we use purpose-designed asbestos paint—formulated to bind to asbestos cement, encapsulate fibres, and provide long-term protection against weathering and deterioration.

The right asbestos paint acts as a sealant, forming a tough, durable layer that reduces fibre release while enhancing the material’s resistance to UV light, rain, and other external elements. We typically recommend two coats to ensure complete coverage and a long-lasting finish. These specialist products also provide waterproofing, making them ideal for asbestos roof sheets and garage roofs.

Our chosen paints are compatible with brushes, rollers, or airless sprayers, allowing for easy application on different types of surfaces. Whether you’re maintaining a large industrial building or a small residential outbuilding, we ensure the paint provides a smooth, seamless finish that adheres well and dries quickly.

It’s important to understand that this isn’t just about aesthetics—using the right asbestos roof paint is about protecting health and safeguarding the material.

Asbestos roof paint

Asbestos roof paint is a crucial part of safely maintaining and extending the life of your asbestos roof. At Yorkshire Roofing, we only use high-performance, specialist coatings that are specifically developed for asbestos cement surfaces. These paints don’t just add a new finish—they provide a vital protective layer that helps prevent asbestos fibres from becoming exposed.

One of the standout benefits of our chosen roof paint is its ability to withstand the UK’s unpredictable weather. From harsh UV light in summer to relentless rain and frost in winter, these coatings offer superior durability and waterproofing. They bond tightly to the asbestos roof sheets, creating a flexible but tough surface that won’t crack or peel under pressure.

In most cases, we apply two coats for maximum protection and an even, long-lasting result. Whether applied with a roller, brush, or airless sprayer, the finish is smooth and consistent across the surface. This approach not only reduces the risk of asbestos exposure but also boosts the overall appearance of your property, helping it remain in good condition for years to come.

Personal protective equipment

At Yorkshire Roofing, safety is at the core of everything we do—especially when dealing with asbestos-containing materials. Whether we’re applying asbestos roof coating or preparing a surface for painting asbestos, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is absolutely essential.

Before starting any job, our team ensures they’re equipped with the appropriate PPE to minimise the risk of asbestos exposure. This includes certified respiratory protection, disposable coveralls, gloves, and goggles—all designed to prevent contact with or inhalation of dangerous asbestos fibres. Even low-level tasks, like brushing off loose dirt, can release fibres if not done properly, so we never cut corners.

In some cases, we also use duct tape to seal cuffs and joins in clothing, ensuring there’s no way for fibres to enter clothing or reach skin. All PPE is either thoroughly cleaned or safely disposed of after use, depending on the type of material involved, and treated as asbestos waste where applicable.

For building owners considering a DIY approach, we strongly advise seeking professional guidance or contacting our team. Handling asbestos without the correct equipment and training can put your health—and others’—at serious risk.

Roof paint

Choosing the right roof paint for asbestos surfaces is not just a matter of aesthetics—it’s a key step in safeguarding your property, extending the roof’s life, and preventing asbestos exposure. At Yorkshire Roofing, we use only top-grade asbestos roof paint and sealants specifically formulated to bond with asbestos cement.

Standard paints simply won’t do the job. They often lack the durability, flexibility, and waterproofing required for effective sealing. Our specialist roof paint offers excellent UV resistance, long-term adhesion, and can be applied easily with a roller, brush, or airless sprayer. It’s perfect for use on industrial buildings, older garages, and residential asbestos roof sheets that need fresh protection.

Applying the correct coating helps seal the surface, locking in any potential fibres and minimising the risks associated with aging or weather-damaged materials. It’s also a proactive approach to maintenance, reducing the need for costly future removal and helping building owners meet legal safety obligations.

Asbestos waste

Properly managing asbestos waste is critical—not just for the safety of those on-site, but also to comply with UK environmental regulations. At Yorkshire Roofing, we follow strict procedures for the containment, removal, and disposal of all waste generated during painting asbestos, including any dust, debris, or discarded personal protective equipment.

Every bit of material, whether it’s used duct tape, coveralls, or flaked asbestos paint, must be treated as hazardous waste. We securely double-bag all asbestos waste in clearly labelled, approved packaging and transport it to licensed disposal facilities. Nothing is left to chance—this is about ensuring complete safety for both our team and your property.

It’s important that building owners understand that disposing of asbestos products improperly is illegal and dangerous. Whether it’s a small job or large-scale maintenance, cutting corners puts health at risk and can lead to hefty fines.

Asbestos sheets

Asbestos sheets—commonly found in older roofs, cladding, and garage panels—were once popular due to their strength and fire resistance. Today, they require careful management. At Yorkshire Roofing, we handle these materials with the utmost care, ensuring they’re preserved where possible through effective coating and sealing, rather than removed unnecessarily.

These sheets can often be kept in place if they’re in good condition and professionally treated. Using a high-quality asbestos roof coating, we lock in any potential fibres, preventing dust and degradation caused by UV light or moisture. The key is to avoid breaking or disturbing the sheets—any physical damage can lead to the release of asbestos fibres, increasing the risk of asbestos exposure.

We also ensure that all joins and edges are sealed using suitable asbestos sealant, sometimes reinforced with duct tape, especially where gaps or deterioration may be present. Our experienced team ensures the surface is properly prepped before applying two coats of durable, waterproof paint to extend the life of the material.

Asbestos cement

Asbestos cement is one of the most common forms of asbestos still found in UK buildings—particularly in roofing, cladding, and wall panels. It’s a composite material, made by mixing cement with asbestos fibres to enhance strength and durability. While it’s more stable than other asbestos products, it still poses a risk when damaged or aged.

At Yorkshire Roofing, we take a proactive approach to maintaining asbestos cement in a safe, effective way. Instead of full removal, which can be costly and disruptive, we often recommend sealing the surface using specially formulated asbestos roof paint. This not only prevents further exposure but also offers outstanding waterproofing and UV protection, especially when applied in two coats.

The key to handling asbestos cement correctly lies in careful preparation, use of the right equipment, and adherence to strict safety protocols. We always assess the material’s condition, ensure all loose areas are secured with duct tape or sealant, and then proceed with applying a durable roof coating designed for long-lasting protection.

With our tailored solutions, building owners can maintain their property’s structural integrity and ensure peace of mind—without compromising on safety.