Painting Asbestos Siding? Here’s what you need to know

So- your here. Which means either you’ve got asbestos siding on your house, or you’re considering buying a home with it. That word—”asbestos”—probably sends a shiver down your spine. You’ve heard the stories, seen commercials from ambulance chasers about asbestos, seen internet and TV headlines, and now, here you are, wondering how to take care of this seemingly dangerous material yourself!

Let’s face it: owning a home is enough work alone- now add having to deal with asbestos siding?? That can feel daunting. Not to make it worse.. but you could also have lead paint!

You’re probably worried about the health risks, the legal implications, and whether you can even improve the curb appeal of your home without causing harm.

The good news is that painting asbestos siding is not only possible, but it can also be done safely and effectively. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the dangers of asbestos to choosing the right paint to protect your home.

By the end of this article, you’ll feel informed, empowered, and maybe even a little relieved. Because let’s be honest, homeownership comes with enough stress—your siding shouldn’t add to it. Click Here some other FAQ’s about exterior painting For us we find these homes are in some of the older suburbs of Chicago like Geneva, Elgin, Woodstock, and Crystal Lake, but Chicago itself I’m sure still has their share of homes with asbestos siding as well.

What Are the Dangers of Asbestos Exposure?

First, let’s address the elephant in the room—what exactly is asbestos, and why is it so scary? Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once hailed for its durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties. It was used in everything from roofing to floor tiles to—you guessed it—siding.

The problem? When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they can become airborne and, if inhaled, pose serious health risks, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. This makes proper handling and care of asbestos-containing materials crucial .

Asbestos siding is generally not dangerous if it’s in good condition and left undisturbed. BUT!! There is always a but- otherwise we would not be writing this and you would not be reading this! The risk comes from cutting, drilling, or sanding the siding, which can release harmful fibers into the air. So, if you’re thinking about painting your asbestos siding, you can!

Painting is a non-invasive way to update the look of your home without the risks associated with removal or heavy renovations.

Quick Tip: Worried about asbestos exposure? It’s always a good idea to have a professional inspection to determine the condition of your siding and whether it’s safe to paint. You can find more information about asbestos safety on the EPA’s website .

How Should I Clean Asbestos Siding?

Before you even think about painting, you’ve got to clean that siding. But remember, this isn’t just any old vinyl or wood siding—we’re dealing with asbestos. The key here is to clean the siding without disturbing the asbestos fibers.

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a low-pressure water/cleaner, a soft-bristled brush, a mild detergent, and protective gear (gloves, mask, and goggles).
2. Wet the Surface: Gently wet the siding with your garden hose. The goal here is to avoid creating dust, which is why a low-pressure setting is important.
3. Scrub Gently: Using your soft-bristled brush and a mixture of water and mild detergent, scrub the siding to remove dirt, grime, and any mold or mildew. Be gentle—remember, we’re trying to avoid disturbing the asbestos fibers.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Once the siding is clean, rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any soap residue.
5. Let It Dry: Allow the siding to dry completely before moving on to the next step. This might take a day or two, depending on the weather.

Note: Avoid Excessive High pressure Power wash- your not stripping deck! High pressure can damage the siding and potentially release asbestos fibers.

What’s the Best Way to Prepare Asbestos Siding for Painting?

Now that your siding is clean, it’s time to prepare it for painting. Proper preparation is crucial to ensuring that the paint adheres well and lasts for years to come.

1. Inspect the Siding: Look for any cracks, chips, or damaged areas. If you find any, it’s important to repair them before painting. For minor cracks, use a high-quality exterior caulk. For larger issues, it’s best to consult a professional.
2. Prime the Siding: This step is non-negotiable. Asbestos siding can be quite porous, so a good primer will help seal the surface and create a smooth, even base for your paint. We recommend using an exterior-grade, acrylic/latex-based primer. Brands like Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore offer excellent options that are specifically designed for this purpose.
3. Choose Your Paint: Not all paints are created equal, especially when it comes to asbestos siding. You’ll want to choose a high-quality, exterior acrylic latex paint. This type of paint is durable, weather-resistant, and flexible enough to handle the natural expansion and contraction of the siding. Look for options that include UV protection and mildew resistance to keep your home looking fresh longer. click here for best paints and stains for exteriors

Does color matter?: Some homeowners opt for a paint that matches the original color of the asbestos siding, while others choose a new color to give their home a modern update. The choice is yours!

What Types of Primer and Paint Should Be Used for Asbestos Siding?

When it comes to asbestos siding, the type of primer and paint you choose can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Primer: As mentioned earlier, an exterior-grade, latex-based primer is the way to go. These primers are designed to adhere to porous surfaces like asbestos and provide a solid base for your topcoat.
2. Paint: For the topcoat, you’ll want to use a high-quality acrylic latex paint. Both Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore offer excellent options. but we’d like to highlight Sherwin Williams Loxon as a particularly good choice for its superior adhesion and durability.

Pros of Acrylic Latex Paint:

• Durable: Stands up well to the elements.
• Flexible: Handles the natural expansion and contraction of asbestos siding.
• Low VOC: Safer for your family and the environment.

Cons:

• Cost: High-quality paint can be more expensive, but it’s worth the investment.

3. Application: Apply the primer and paint using a brush, roller, or sprayer—whatever you’re most comfortable with. Two coats of paint are usually sufficient, but make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats.

Pro Tip: Paint on a dry, mild day to avoid issues with humidity or extreme temperatures affecting the paint’s finish.

Is It Safe to Buy a Home with Asbestos Siding?

If you’re in the market for a new home and you’ve come across a property with asbestos siding, you might be feeling a bit nervous. The truth is, buying a home with asbestos siding isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but it does require some careful consideration.

1. Health Risks: As long as the siding is in good condition and undisturbed, the health risks are minimal. However, you should factor in the cost of regular maintenance to ensure the siding remains intact and sealed.
2. Resale Value: Some buyers might be put off by the presence of asbestos, which could affect the resale value of the home. On the flip side, well-maintained asbestos siding can actually be a selling point due to its durability and fire resistance.
3. Insurance: Some insurance companies may charge higher premiums for homes with asbestos siding, so it’s worth checking with your provider before making a purchase.

Pro Tip: Always have a professional inspection done before purchasing a home with asbestos siding. This will give you a clear picture of the condition of the siding and any potential costs for repair or maintenance.

A Final Word on Painting Asbestos Siding

Painting asbestos siding doesn’t have to be a scary process. (but it may be costly) With the right knowledge, tools, and a little bit of elbow grease, you can update the look of your home while keeping it safe and protected. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to refresh your property or someone considering buying a home with asbestos siding, understanding the ins and outs of this unique material is key to making informed decisions.

The most important thing is to handle asbestos with care. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, choose your materials wisely, and don’t hesitate to call in a professional if you’re unsure about any part of the process. After all, your home is your sanctuary—let’s keep it that way.

And here’s a little painting humor to lighten the mood: Why did the painter always fail at starting a conversation? Because he could never find the right tone! 🎨

For more information about asbestos safety, check out Asbestos.com, and for top-quality paint options, visit Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore.

If in doubt- have a question- let us know we are here to help you love the space your in- With Interior and exterior painting, deck staining, and cabinet painting- we can help!