'Be aware' of cladding materials that may contain asbestos

06/07/2010 15:12:33

 

Homeowners undertaking DIY projects have been warned to keep aware of whether cladding materials might contain asbestos when removing boards from their property.

Modern cladding materials are free of the harmful substance, which can cause diseases including mesothelioma, but asbestos can still be present in roof boards and textured ceilings.

Craig Phillips, winner of the first series of Big Brother and now a television personality on DIY shows, advises caution if potential asbestos is encountered.

"If you come across a material that could possibly be asbestos the usual way of identifying it is by the colour and texture - white-grey is most common," he says.

Asbestos boards are likely to look like cement boards, should be fairly rigid and may have been used in properties as late as 1989, he adds.

Mr Phillips suggests that anyone considering undertaking DIY projects who might hire a tradesman in more prosperous times should exercise particular caution to avoid potentially putting their health at risk.

Posted by Ashley Brunskill

 

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