If you own a home built before 1980, there is a real chance your exterior siding contains asbestos. For decades, manufacturers added asbestos fibers to cement siding because it made the material stronger, more fire-resistant, and longer-lasting. Millions of American homes still have this siding today.
The big question homeowners ask: Is asbestos siding actually dangerous? The short answer is that it depends on the condition of the siding and what you plan to do with it. Understanding the risks — and when testing makes sense — can help you make smart decisions about your home.
What Is Asbestos Siding?
Asbestos-cement siding was one of the most popular exterior materials in the United States from the 1920s through the late 1970s. It typically looks like thick, rigid shingles with a wood-grain or smooth texture. Common brand names included Eternit and Johns-Manville, though many generic versions existed.
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Get certified asbestos results — no inspector needed → — $35The asbestos fibers in this siding are mixed into the cement material, not sitting loose on the surface. This is different from some other asbestos products where fibers can easily become airborne.
When Is Asbestos Siding Dangerous?
Asbestos becomes a health concern when its fibers get released into the air and people breathe them in. With asbestos-cement siding, the fibers are locked inside the rigid material. This means that siding in good condition, left undisturbed, generally poses very low risk.
However, the risk changes significantly in certain situations:
- Drilling, cutting, or sawing — Power tools create dust that can release asbestos fibers
- Breaking or cracking — Damaged shingles can expose fibers at the broken edges
- Pressure washing — High-pressure water can erode the surface and release particles
- Sanding or scraping paint — Any abrasion of the surface risks fiber release
- Removal or demolition — Taking down old siding is one of the highest-risk activities
The EPA and other health agencies advise homeowners to leave asbestos-containing materials alone if they are in good shape. The danger comes from disturbing the material, not simply having it on your home.
Should You Test Your Siding for Asbestos?
Testing makes sense in several common situations:
- Before any renovation work — If you plan to replace siding, add windows, or do any exterior work that might disturb the material
- Before selling your home — Buyers and inspectors often ask about asbestos, and knowing for certain is better than guessing
- After storm damage — If shingles are cracked or broken, testing helps you understand what precautions to take during repairs
- For peace of mind — If you simply want to know what your home contains
You cannot tell if siding contains asbestos just by looking at it. Even experienced contractors cannot identify asbestos visually with certainty. The only way to know for sure is laboratory testing of a material sample.
What to Do If Your Siding Contains Asbestos
If testing confirms asbestos in your siding, you have several options:
Leave it alone. If the siding is in good condition and you have no plans to disturb it, this is often the safest and most affordable choice. Many homeowners live with asbestos siding for decades without any problems.
Encapsulate or cover it. Some homeowners install new siding directly over the old asbestos siding. This seals in the material and gives your home a fresh look without the risks of removal. Check local building codes before choosing this option.
Have it professionally removed. If the siding is badly damaged or you want it gone, hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. Professional removal follows strict safety procedures to protect workers and your family. DIY removal of asbestos siding is illegal in many states and always risky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I paint over asbestos siding safely?
Yes, painting asbestos-cement siding is generally safe and can actually help seal the surface. Avoid sanding, scraping, or using a pressure washer to prepare the surface. Use a gentle cleaning method and apply paint with a brush, roller, or low-pressure sprayer.
How much does it cost to remove asbestos siding?
Professional asbestos siding removal typically costs between $5 and $15 per square foot, depending on your location and the complexity of the job. A typical home might cost $8,000 to $20,000 for full removal. Many homeowners choose to cover the siding instead, which costs significantly less.
Is it safe to live in a house with asbestos siding?
Yes, living in a home with asbestos siding is considered safe as long as the material remains in good condition and is not disturbed. The asbestos fibers are bound within the cement and do not become airborne during normal daily life. The risk only increases when the material is damaged or worked on.
If you are planning exterior work on an older home or simply want to know what your siding contains, testing is a smart first step. The MycoTest DIY Asbestos Test lets you collect a small material sample yourself and send it to an accredited laboratory for analysis. You get clear, certified results without scheduling an inspector — a simple way to make informed decisions about your home.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. MycoTest DIY kits are screening tools for environmental materials. For confirmed contamination or abatement work, consult a certified environmental professional.
