The Hidden Risk of Asbestos in Fences and Outbuildings

Asbestos is often thought of as a danger inside homes, yet it lingers in places many property owners overlook, fences, sheds, and small outbuildings. At Total Asbestos Removal Brisbane, we regularly find asbestos materials in these overlooked spaces, posing silent risks to families, neighbours, and even pets. Recognising the presence of asbestos in outdoor structures is vital for both safety and compliance.

Key Takeaways

• Asbestos is common in older fences, sheds, and garages
• Weathering increases the chance of fibre release outdoors
• Safe removal must be handled by licensed professionals
• Disposal rules apply even to small amounts of asbestos

Asbestos Beyond the Home

When people hear the word asbestos, they often picture old roofing or wall sheeting. Yet, thousands of homes across Australia still have asbestos in fences and outbuildings. According to the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency, more than 1.5 million Australian properties built before 1990 may contain asbestos in some form.

Materials such as corrugated fencing, shed cladding, and even dog kennels were commonly made with asbestos cement. Over time, weathering and impact cause these materials to deteriorate, making them highly dangerous when disturbed.

Why Asbestos in Fences is Dangerous?

For decades, asbestos-cement sheets, commonly known as fibro, were used in Australian fencing. Many homes built between the 1940s and 1980s may still have these fences in place. Asbestos cement was popular due to its durability, weather resistance, and relatively low cost. It was used in a variety of materials, including roofing, flooring, and, notably, in fences.

What makes asbestos in fences particularly dangerous is that, unlike roofing or internal walls, fences are exposed to the elements. Over time, weathering and physical wear can cause the material to break down, potentially releasing harmful asbestos fibres into the air. These fibres are microscopic and can be inhaled when disturbed, leading to serious respiratory diseases.

Fences made from asbestos cement sheets can be tricky to identify for those who are not familiar with asbestos materials. They often look like grey or off-white sheets with a rough texture. In many cases, the fibres are not visible unless the sheet is broken or damaged.

Outdoor structures face constant exposure to sun, rain, and wind. As asbestos fences age, they become brittle and prone to cracking. Every break or chip can release microscopic fibres into the air.

• Children playing nearby may inhale fibres while climbing fences.
• Garden maintenance, like mowing or trimming, can disturb the material.
• Neighbours may also be exposed if shared fences are compromised.

The Australian Government Department of Health states that there is no safe level of asbestos exposure, underscoring why even weathered fences must be treated seriously.

The Asbestos Risk in Outbuildings

Outbuildings, including garages, sheds, and storage units, are another common site for asbestos in older properties. Many of these structures were built with asbestos-cement roofing, cladding, or flooring. In particular, the use of asbestos in shed roofing was widespread because it was considered a fireproof and durable solution.

The risk in outbuildings is often compounded by the fact that these areas can become neglected over time. People rarely spend as much time inspecting or maintaining their sheds as they do the main house, meaning potential hazards such as asbestos can go unnoticed. As these buildings age, they become even more vulnerable to deterioration, especially when exposed to the elements. As the material deteriorates, fibres are more likely to be released into the air, creating a hidden health risk.

How Does Asbestos Become Dangerous?

The danger from asbestos occurs when the material becomes damaged or disturbed, releasing tiny asbestos fibres into the air. These fibres are so small that they can be easily inhaled. When asbestos is in good condition and left undisturbed, it does not pose a significant risk. However, once the material begins to degrade, whether from weather exposure, physical damage, or even simple wear and tear, it can release fibres into the surrounding environment.

Inhaling these fibres can lead to serious long-term health issues, including:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and scarring of the lungs.
• Mesothelioma: A rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen.
• Lung Cancer: Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly for those who smoke.

Even low-level exposure to asbestos fibres can increase the risk of developing these diseases, making it crucial to address any potential asbestos issues as soon as they are identified.

How to Identify Asbestos in Fences and Outbuildings?

If you live in an older property, it’s important to know the signs of asbestos. While it is difficult to identify asbestos just by looking at it, there are a few telltale signs that can point to its presence:

• Fences: Asbestos-cement fences are typically grey or off-white and may have a rough, textured surface. These fences can sometimes be identified by their corrugated or flat sheets.
• Outbuildings: Asbestos materials may be used in roofing or wall cladding, particularly in older sheds or garages. The roof may look similar to corrugated iron but have a more fibrous texture.

If you are unsure whether your fences or outbuildings contain asbestos, it’s important to get them professionally tested. Only a licensed professional can safely take samples and test them for asbestos content. If you find that your structures contain asbestos, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to manage the material safely.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Asbestos in Fences or Outbuildings?

If you suspect that your fence or outbuilding contains asbestos, do not disturb the material. Avoid trying to remove or repair it yourself, as this can release dangerous asbestos fibres into the air. Instead, here’s what you should do:

• Contact a Licensed Asbestos Removalist: They can assess the situation and advise on the safest course of action.
• Do not Attempt DIY Removal: Asbestos removal is a highly specialised task and should only be carried out by professionals who have the appropriate training, equipment, and safety procedures in place.
• Protect Yourself: If the area is at risk of disturbing the asbestos, consider isolating the space until a professional can address it.
• Get the Area Tested: If you’re unsure about the material, it’s always better to have it tested by a professional before taking any further steps.

What Are the Options for Dealing with Asbestos in Fences and Outbuildings?

Once the presence of asbestos has been confirmed, there are a few options available for managing the material:

• Encapsulation: If the asbestos is in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed, a licensed professional can seal the material with a protective coating to prevent the release of fibres. This can be a more affordable option for some homeowners.
• Removal: In most cases, complete removal of asbestos from fences and outbuildings is the safest and most permanent solution. A licensed removalist will carefully dismantle and dispose of the material, ensuring that it is handled safely and according to local regulations.

In some cases, replacing old asbestos fencing with a safer alternative, such as timber, may be a wise long-term investment. While this may seem costly upfront, it eliminates the potential health risks and improves the overall value and safety of the property.

The Removal Process

At Total Asbestos Removal Brisbane, every project follows a strict, step-by-step method:

• Professional asbestos inspection – Professional asbestos inspection confirming asbestos presence and condition.
• Preparation – Setting barriers, signage, and safety controls.
• Careful Removal – Keeping sheets intact to minimise dust.
• Sealing and Packaging – Double-wrapping in heavy-duty plastic.
• Transport and Disposal – Delivering waste to licensed facilities.
• Final Clearance – Ensuring the site is safe for use.

These steps meet Safe Work Australia regulations and ensure peace of mind for property owners.

Why Professional Removal is Essential?

Handling asbestos without a licence is not only unsafe but also illegal. Queensland regulations require licensed professionals for asbestos removal above 10 square metres. Attempting removal yourself risks exposure, environmental contamination, and fines.

At Total Asbestos Removal Brisbane, we provide an asbestos consultation service to assist businesses dealing with asbestos in external storage areas and industrial sheds.

Conclusion

Asbestos in fences and outbuildings is an often-forgotten danger, yet one that can affect entire households and communities. At Total Asbestos Removal Brisbane, we combine expertise with compliance to remove these risks safely and effectively. If your property has old fencing, garages, or sheds that may contain asbestos, now is the time to act. Contact us to arrange a professional inspection and removal service tailored to your needs.

FAQs: 

What are the signs that my fence may contain asbestos?

If your fence was built before 1990 and is made from cement sheeting, it may contain asbestos. A licensed inspector can confirm through testing.

Can asbestos fences be repaired instead of removed?

Repairs are not recommended, as they can disturb fibres. Removal is the safest option.

Is it legal to remove asbestos fencing myself?

In Queensland, you can only remove very small amounts (under 10m²) without a licence. Anything larger requires a licensed asbestos removalist.

What happens to asbestos waste after removal?

All asbestos waste must be double-wrapped, labelled, and transported to approved disposal facilities.

How much does it cost to remove asbestos fences or sheds?

Costs vary based on size, condition, and location. Contact us for a detailed quote.

Will removing asbestos from my fence affect my neighbours?

No. Licensed removalists use controls to prevent fibre release, ensuring neighbouring properties remain safe.