Paint peeling on asbestos soffit boards

JRyu

Hello

I am a prospective home buyer. The home buyer survey noted that soffit boards to eaves may contain asbestos cement. I also found paint peeling on the soffit is in progress. A builder said that to replace them scaffolding is needed and it costs a lot.

If the soffit is asbestos containing materials do I have to replace as paint on it is being peeled?

Furts

Hi JRyu
The soffits may or may not contain asbestos. The truth is neither your surveyor nor anyone else knows. The proof would be in removing some and taking a sample for analysis. This is not warranted.

The solution is to leave the soffits in place - they are not causing any problems. If you are bothered by the peeling paint then redecorate them. If you are able, and not worried about your safety put up a ladder and DIY. Otherwise get someone else in.

If it helps, my soffits are cement board (commonly called asbestos - though this does not mean there is any asbestos in them!) and I have decorated them in vinyl matt emulsion - quick, easy and cheap.

chappers

Indeed how old is this property most soffit that looks like asbestos is actualy fibre cement.

bob2

No need to replace. Just repaint to seal in. Most people would recommend that don't use sandpaper to avoid release of fibres.

When we had ours done the painter just used ladders and some paint remover. Once sealed with fresh paint they are not a problem.

Here's the advice one local authority gives...

http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/faq/content.php?page=faq&ID=4#faq38

The paint on my asbestos soffit boards is flaking badly. What is the best way to renovate and redecorate them? Avoid working directly overhead. The existing paintwork may be removed by carefully applying a proprietary paint remover to the surface or by spraying with water and gently scraping off loose material. A sealant and finishing coat should then be applied. If sanding is absolutely unavoidable then a coarse wet and dry paper USED WET will restore a finish. You should wear a dust mask (as above) while doing this work. The area should be well cleaned with a damp cloth when the job is complete and the cleaning materials sealed in a plastic bag for disposal.

JRyu

Thank you all. I got peace of mind now.

G_M

Whiew! Common sense prevails!

You read so many threads here where FTBs are panicked by surveys and either walk away or start demanding 1000s off the price - I dread ever trying to sell my 19th C house!