What exactly is asbestos?

Asbestos is a collective name for a group of natural minerals with strong fibers. In the past, it was often used in construction because of its insulating, fire-resistant, and wear-resistant properties. Only later was it discovered that asbestos fibers are harmful to health when released and inhaled. For this reason, the use of asbestos has been banned in Belgium since the 1990s.

Important to know: asbestos is only dangerous when it is damaged or becomes loose, and fibers spread into the air. In a sealed, undamaged state, it is much less risky.

How do you know if there is asbestos in your home?

The likelihood of asbestos is especially high in buildings constructed between 1945 and 1980. Since 1995, the use of asbestos has been officially banned in Belgium. Was your home built after 1995? Then you are generally safe.

Since 2022, an asbestos certificate has been mandatory when selling buildings dating from before 2001. This certificate shows whether asbestos is present, where it is located, and whether it is damaged or not.

Where is asbestos often found?
Where is asbestos often found?

Asbestos is most often found in and around the roof, especially in older pitched roofs. But it can also occur as a facade finish. Typical applications include:

  • Asbestos slates as roof covering

  • Underroof panels with asbestos-containing material

  • Facade slates made of asbestos

In addition, asbestos can also be present in other places in and around the house, such as:

  • Floor coverings (e.g. vinyl tiles or glue residues)

  • Chimneys (asbestos cement pipes or casings)

  • Coping stones or other finishes on facades, terraces, or window sills

👉 Not sure? Then an asbestos inventory or sample analysis is the safest step before starting your renovation.

When does asbestos become dangerous?

There are a few important signals to watch out for:

  • Are the asbestos sheets broken or damaged? Then removal is necessary.
  • Is it bonded asbestos (fixed within another material)? Then it is less risky as long as it remains intact.
  • Never drill, saw, or sand asbestos-containing materials. This releases fibers that can be harmful.

Not sure? Then it’s best to call in a certified asbestos expert for a professional assessment.

 

 

 

What can Cleys do for you?

At Cleys, we not only help you with the removal of asbestos, but we also take care of a complete roof and/or facade renovation. That means: no separate contractors, no stress, and just one fixed point of contact for everything.

What do we do in practice?

  • Removal and disposal of asbestos slates on pitched roofs
  • Replacement of damaged or risky underroofs containing asbestos
  • Complete new roof structure, including insulation and future-oriented finishing

 

 

 

This way, you are not only rid of asbestos, but you are also well covered in terms of energy efficiency, comfort, and regulations.

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