What material is this sheet?

[parker200500303]

 

 

  

[parker200500303]

Just have some follow up question. This sheet is on the side of house and I've attached front and back close-up photos, I am very new to DIY, would love for the informed to share some knowledge on what it is made of and if I need to get a professional to inspect it. Thanks.

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @parker200500303,

Thank you for your question and welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Where in your home is this sheet located? Is it outside? Possibly an eave?

Are you aware of the age of your home? Was it renovated any time before 1990?

It looks like a fibre cement eave sheet.

Is your concern that this material might be asbestos? If so, don't take any chances.

There's a risk of asbestos exposure from homes built or renovated before 1990. Before starting any work, determine if asbestos is present by having your home assessed and taking necessary precautions to protect yourself and others. Access resources from the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency for guidance on safe practices. Prioritise safety by educating yourself and seeking professional assistance when needed.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[parker200500303]

Hi Jacob,

Appreciate your answer. Very helpful.

This sheet is located at the side of house to close out the eaves, so probably the same material (this is painted which is why it looks white). 

The house is very old (1960s I think), but I've previously had a professional asbestos tester/removalists to get rid of asbestos material (including eaves). This particular sheet is not mentioned on the report so I wasn't sure if it's missed or not harmful. 

I also can't remember if my builder put in this particular new sheet while installing the new eaves. Hence my question.

Best,

Parker 

[JacobZ]

Hi @parker200500303,

It's best to have it reassessed to be sure, but in the meantime, you can mix 1 part PVA glue with 5 parts water, then use a spray bottle to apply the mix to the cracked area. This will help bond everything together, so any potential asbestos fibres are held in place. If it is not asbestos, this will not cause any harm to the sheet.

It's always better to be safe than sorry.

Jacob

[parker200500303]

Thanks for the advice, appreciate it.

[MitchellMc]

Hi @parker200500303,

I just wanted to add that it's not possible for anyone to positively identify asbestos without proper testing. Unless the sheet was specifically mentioned as not being asbestos and was tested for it, then it is best practice to presume it is.

The presence or not of hairs or dimples on the sheets is not enough to provide any level of confidence. It must be tested to be sure.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[parker200500303]

Thanks Mitchell,

Appreciate the information. I will arrange another inspection with a professional tester.

Best,

Parker 

[parker200500303]

Thanks team, I have done a lab testing and it's not asbestos.

Best,

Parker 

[JacobZ]

Hi @parker200500303,

I'm glad to hear it. Asbestos is nasty stuff and you should never take any risks if you're not sure.

Thank you for the update.

Jacob