Does Installing Eave Vents Expose You to Asbestos?
Asbestos soffits were commonly used throughout the 1900s; some were made using lower-risk bonded cement materials, while others were made using high-risk brittle materials, such as asbestos. Buildings built before asbestos regulations are generally likely to have asbestos soffits. These under-fitted boards from asbestos cement can pose a health risk if the encased asbestos fibers become airborne.
However, asbestos exposure risks only emerge when asbestos-containing products become breakable over time due to wear and tear. When they reach advanced stages of friability, disturbing them will generate asbestos dust, which is known for its high toxicity.
Such a disturbing event is installing eave vents into asbestos eave coverings. These vents are necessary openings positioned along the eaves or roof edges to allow air to flow into the attic. They create a continuous airflow through the attic space and usually work in conjunction with other ventilation components:
- ridge vents
- gable vents
The circulating air from the eave vents helps to push out hot, stale air and contributes to reducing the temperature in the attic and preventing moisture buildup and mold formation. There are various types of eave vents designed to meet different ventilation needs, including:
- under eave vents - typically placed under the overhang of the roof
- attic eave vents - are located within the attic space itself
Both types are essential for maintaining proper airflow and protecting the integrity of your home's roof and structure by reducing hot air trapped under your roof in the summer and the risk of condensation and ice dams forming during the winter - generally preventing damage to roofing materials through moisture. All in all, eave vents are beneficial to your home by contributing to the following:
- temperature regulation and, therefore, reducing energy costs
- moisture control and preventing mold and mildew spreading
- prolonged roof life and minimizing the need for costly repairs or premature roof replacement
- energy efficiency and a more comfortable home environment
Minimize Asbestos Exposure Risks When Installing Eave Vents
Besides choosing the right type and size of vents for your home's specific needs, the placement of eave vents should be carefully planned to avoid any hazard caused by asbestos dust. Working with high-power tools while drilling, cutting, or sawing into asbestos coverings will release microscopic asbestos threads into the air, so safety measures should be in place before carrying out the task. This applies especially when eave vents are installed with other ventilation items, such as ridge vents or attic fans, to create a comprehensive ventilation system.
Professional installation is always recommended, as a qualified contractor can assess your home's asbestos eave coverings and provide you with the best solutions tailored to your budget and needs. For those in favor of a more hands-on option, our DIY exposure-preventing protocols may greatly help. While asbestos cement soffits are considered lower-risk, it doesn't mean the product isn't harmful and certainly doesn't mean it is safe to handle without protection. It would be best if you took all the required precautions to minimize any chances of exposure:
- search information about handling asbestos, associated health risks, and legislation
- buy proper, OSHA-approved safety equipment
- seal the work area so as not to spread the toxic fibers in your home
- remove, bag, and seal protection equipment