Asbestos was used in corrugated cement fencing in New Zealand up to the mid-1980s. While considered a valuable building material at the time, asbestos is now known to cause life-threatening health problems such as lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. It is now generally recommended that asbestos fences be removed, a process which runs the risk of releasing dangerous fibres into the atmosphere. To ensure safety, along with environmental standard compliance, it is essential that removal work be undertaken by a reputable and fully qualified professional.
Asbestos was used in thousands of building products prior to knowing its dangers, due to its desirable properties of fire resistance, durability, insulation and affordability. Corrugated asbestos cement sheeting was one of these products, and it was used for fencing and around garden beds. While a safer cement fencing product was developed in the late 1980s using cellulose fibres, asbestos fences remain on some properties today.
Asbestos-containing fences can break down over time, due to weathering, accidental damage, or soil movement causing the fence to lean. This can lead to asbestos fibres being released into the air and subsequently inhaled or ingested.
If you have a corrugated cement sheet fence on your property that was likely built before 1990, it is essential to have it assessed for possible asbestos content, inspected for damage, and potentially removed. All this must be done by a qualified team, and in accordance with New Zealand’s work and environmental safety regulations.
Revolve Asbestos works through a thorough assessment, removal and containment process to ensure fences are safely removed, no traces of asbestos are left behind, and all hazardous materials are correctly disposed of. Our step-by-step process is as follows:
Whether you need asbestos fence removal for a commercial or residential property, you can expect exceptional service and unmatched expertise from Revolve Asbestos Solutions.
At the start of the process, we will undertake thorough testing and provide a detailed quote and removal plan, so that you’ll know exactly what to expect. All work will adhere to current legislation and safety regulations, and we will ensure all involved parties know how the process will impact their access to the site.
Our process doesn’t end with removal - our follow-up procedures includes ensuring the area is free from asbestos contamination, so that you can feel 100% safe.
Asbestos fence removal prices vary according to factors such as the size of the fence, its condition, and ease of accessibility. Pricing is tailored to the individual project - request your free pricing estimate below.
Want to know how much it will cost to have your asbestos fence removed? Contact Revolve Asbestos Solutions for a free consultation and tailored quote. We can help you with asbestos removal projects big or small, in Auckland, Whangarei, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and surrounds.
Revolve Asbestos Solutions are New Zealand's premier provider of residential and commercial asbestos removal services, and we are proudly 100% Kiwi owned and operated.
With a combined 21+ years of experience, and utilising the industry’s most advanced techniques for asbestos testing, containment and removal, our team are your top choice for handling asbestos fence removal.
Quality and safety are a key focus of our work, and we comply with the ISO 45001 standard, AS/NZS 4801 standard, as well as Prequal and Site Wise certifications.
Have a chat with us today and see why we have over a thousand happy customers and counting!
We never recommend that you handle or remove asbestos fencing yourself. Asbestos poses significant health risks when disturbed, and no amount of exposure to asbestos fibres is deemed safe. New Zealand asbestos handling regulations require that removals be performed by a licensed professional using protective gear and controlled procedures. There are also specific requirements for post-removal clearance inspection and the disposal of waste.
Corrugated asbestos cement sheet fencing was used up until the mid-1980s, before a new product was developed using safer cellulose fibre. The outward appearance of both fencing types is similar, and it can be tricky to determine whether a fence contains asbestos just by looking. An investigation of records, a site inspection and laboratory testing may be required to confirm the presence of asbestos. If you have a corrugated cement fence that may have been built prior to 1990, we recommend having a professional undertake asbestos testing.
The health risks of asbestos primarily stem from inhaling its microscopic fibres, which can become airborne when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed. These fibres can lodge in the lungs and other tissues, leading to serious diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These diseases may not appear until years after exposure, and may have no cure. With such severe potential health risks, it is critical that asbestos removal be undertaken by a fully qualified team of professionals, such as Revolve Asbestos Solutions.
The time it takes to safely remove a fence depends on a number of factors, including the size of the fence, its condition, accessibility and proximity to people. The removal process may extend from one day to a couple of days. The complexity of preparation and safety measures, such as setting up containment areas and ensuring proper disposal, can extend the overall timeline. For an estimated timeline and asbestos fence removal price, contact Revolve Asbestos Solutions.
