Base Flashing - Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Risks

From the mid 1880s on, the versatility and properties of asbestos made the mineral extremely popular in the construction trade, especially in roofing. Felt and other materials woven with asphalt were water-resistant, fire resistant, corrosion-resistant and pest resistant. In short, asbestos was a perfect roofing material. While asbestos roofing tiles are the best known asbestos roofing materials, there are many other products that also contained - and still contain - asbestos. One that is often overlooked when doing home renovations or roof repairs is base flashing.

What is Base Flashing?

Flashing is typically used as weatherproofing for a home. It is composed of two parts, base flashing and cap flashing, that fit together and protect joints and joists from water penetration. The cap flashing is most often sheet metal of some type. While the base flashing in the highest quality houses is also often metal, base flashing for mid-range construction of homes throughout the mid-to-late 1900s was often roofing felt, often woven with asbestos to take advantage of its many resistant properties.

Another source of asbestos in reference to base flashing is the roofing adhesive or flashing adhesive that was used to secure it in place. Many if not most roofing adhesives contained asbestos, and a number of adhesives still on the market are made with asbestos.

In addition, even if the roof flashing itself does not contain asbestos - as when both the base and cap flashing are made of metal, the roofing felt beneath it nearly always was impregnated or woven with asbestos for its fire-resistant qualities. Replacing the flashing may tear or damage the roofing felt, possibly releasing asbestos dust into the air.

How do I know if the base flashing or roofing felt on my roof has asbestos in it?

You may be able to identify asbestos containing materials by checking the markings on the materials themselves, or on the packages in which they came. Alternatively, you can call the manufacturer if you can find the brand name of the products used on your roof. The most likely way to find out if your home has asbestos in it, though, is to hire a professional asbestos inspector who will examine your home, take samples and analyze them.

Should I remove roofing materials that contain asbestos?

As long as the materials are in good shape and not deteriorating, say experts, you should simply leave it alone. If it has become damaged, or if you are removing or replacing a roof, you should be aware that any home built before 1985 is likely to have used asbestos based or laced products in the roofing materials. It's suggested that you contact an asbestos removal specialist, as well as checking the statutes in your city and state. In some states, you may be required to contract with an asbestos removal professional.

I worked in the roofing trade when I was younger. Should I be concerned?

Roofers are among the occupational groups that are most likely to develop mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure during their work. If you worked as a roofer in the past, even for as little time as a few weeks, your doctor should be made aware of it since there is a chance that you were exposed to asbestos. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos related illness, you may choose to contact a lawyer to find out what your legal options are for recovering medical expenses and compensation for your suffering and loss.

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