How to tell the difference between Super Six and Hardifence
6 tips to distinguish between corrugated asbestos Super Six fence sheets and modern non asbestos Hardifence.
Corrugated fibre cement sheets have been used in Australia for over 40 years in either for fencing or roofing. The original product was an asbestos cement product known as Super Six manufactured by James Hardie & Co. and later it became known as Hardifence based on the much safer cellulose fibre. Both products look very similar but how do you distinguish between the two?
The original corrugated “Super Six” asbestos cement sheets were manufactured by James Hardie & Co. from the 1950′s and ceased in 1985. It was widely used as fencing and for roof sheeting with much original Super Six fencing is still in use today.
However, from after 1985 Super Six was replaced by a similar looking product known as Hardifence. This new product eliminated the deadly asbestos fibres and replaced them with the much friendlier and safer cellulose fibre, which is essentially made from wood pulp.
Hardifence is still manufactured to this day and is an excellent product.
To the untrained eye, Super Six and Hardifence look quite similar. However, dealing with Super Six requires special precautions to be taken during its handling and for its disposal due to its asbestos content. Be careful not to dispose of any Super Six sheeting in general waste or skip bins not designed for asbestos disposal as you risk being charged a hefty asbestos disposal fee or even worse, a fine for illegal asbestos disposal.
Is it asbestos Super Six or modern Hardifence?
6 Tips to identify Super Six(asbestos) and Hardifence(non asbestos).
1. Age of the house:
A house built in the late 1980′s and onwards is less likely to have asbestos Super Six fencing installed. Although it’s possible second hand asbestos Super Six sheeting may have been reused the incidence of this is probably low. Likewise an older house is more likely to have asbestos Super Six asbestos fence, which may have been installed in the 1960′ or 70′s.
2. Count the number of ridges:
The latest version of Hardifence has 5 ridges which is a sure sign of being the asbestos free Hardifence rather than Super Six which has 7 ridges.
However, to make matters confusing, early versions of Hardifence have the same profile (7 ridges) as Super Six. See picture above.
These early versions of Hardifence were prone to breakage and often cracked off at the bottom. Also breakage near the diamond washer/nut & bolt fixing is also quite common.
Hardies soon improved Hardifence with deeper corrugations and eliminated the washer, nut & bolt with the top metal capping becoming an integral part to keep the sheets from separating at the top.
3. Markings:
If possible, examine the edge of the sheet to see any indentifiable markings. Hardifence has “Hardifence” printed on there along with a date of manufacture. Early styles of Hardifence have “Manufactured without asbestos” and a manufacturing date mark.
4. Capping: metal or asbestos cement.
If the fence is fitted with fibre cement capping, then it’s a sure sign that the fence is asbestos.
However, if the fence has metal capping then it’s most likely the fence is Hardifence and does not contain asbestos.
The most recent version of Hardifence is always fitted with metal capping as this is an integral part which keeps the sheets from separating at the top. However, bear in mind that there are plenty of fences where no capping is fitted at all.
5. Finger nail scratch test.
Use your fingernail to scratch the surface of the sheet. If you can gouge a mark in it, then this is a good indicator of being Hardifence rather than Super Six. Generally Hardifence is slightly softer than Super Six.
6. Using digital camera in macro mode:
If you have a digital camera then use the macro mode setting to take a close up picture. Next, find a suitably broken corner or edge to photograph. You can then examine the type of material composition from the comfort of your computer monitor.
Whilst asbestos fibres are microscopic, the asbestos fibre used in the manufacturing process of asbestos cement sheeting was in large clumps or bundles. These fibrous bundles can be seen sticking out near a breakage point or sometimes on a edge of the sheet when you examine the close up photo of your sample. From this you can determine whether or not the material is asbestos cement or not.
By contrast, the cellulose fibres used in Hardifence tend to be bonded more uniformly and fibre lengths tend to be shorter and not as strong. As a result, broken edges of Hardifence almost resemble the appearance of torn cardboard with a soft fuzzy edging. In addition, broken edges of Hardifence may tend to have a layered appearance, probably due to the manufacturing process.
Warning: Do not break any suspect asbestos cement sheeting when taking a close up photo as this will release deadly asbestos fibres which may be breathed in. Better to find an existing broken corner or edge to photograph.
Laboratory testing.
If all else fails, you can take samples to a certified testing laboratory where they can be examined microscopically for asbestos. A list of laboratories can be found on the NATA(National Association Testing Authorities) website – www.nata.asn.au
Links to more asbestos identification tips.
Builder Bill’s DIY Help – Asbestos
Check out Darwin based builder and asbestos removalist Bill Bradley who has some solid advice on identifying and dealing with asbestos cement in buildings for do it yourself renovators.
June 1st, 2010 at 4:07 pm
Hi
About 1980 I erected a fence on my property using super 6 corrugated sheets,many of which I cut with a power saw!
At the time we had an engineering business in Edwardstown SA and a James Hardie rep regularly visited and One of the questions I asked before ordering was about the Asbestos content! He assured me at the time there was no Asbestos content , The sheets have 7 flutes so do I now assume they have asbestos content?
regards
Phil Jenner
June 1st, 2010 at 9:39 pm
Hi Phil, The early profiles of non asbestos fence sheeting had 7 corrugations just like the older Super Six which did contain asbestos, which adds to the confusion. The asbestos free Super Six/Hardifence was manufactured from the mid 1980′s(Like about 1986) onwards begining with 7 corrugations then later with 5 corrugations after Hardies improved it, using a better formula and deeper corrugations. If the fencing you mentioned was installed in 1980 I’d say this most probably contained asbestos.
However, the only sure way to know, is to take a sample. Is the fence still there?
Jeff.
November 23rd, 2010 at 9:58 pm
Hi Jeff
Just found your reply!yes the fence isstill present and in good codition. we recently painted it suspecting it was asbestos,
The problem was bought more to the forefront when my father was recently diagnosed with asbestosis, related to his early employment at BHAS Port Pirie
Regards Phil
August 30th, 2011 at 1:32 pm
Hi Just wondering I own a unit in a large group and the fences are the cement sheets about 300mm wide woven around the posts. Built in about mid 70′s I was wondering if this would contain asbestos? I thought that the asbestos sheets would crack if bent?
Thanks Darren
August 31st, 2011 at 10:07 pm
Hi Darren, Hmmm difficult to say. Sounds like it has been built from strips of flat sheeting, but the sheeting could be either asbestos or not asbestos. Certainly, if it was part of of the original construction in the 1970′s, then it’s definately asbestos, if it was an addition from the mid 1980′s onwards, then probably non asbestos. For positive identification, you can take a sample for lab analysis
Jeff.
September 27th, 2011 at 10:56 am
Hi,
I’m about to remove a super six fence and replace with a colourbond one, the exsisting fence has markings on the side saying
“Hardies SuperSix Underlap 03/03/89″ I’m guessing that’s the date on the end but my concern is it is still called “Super Six”
September 27th, 2011 at 11:16 am
An excellent article, and you are doing a great service by raising awareness. In Perth its amazing how many asbestos fences are around, and the rule of thumb i like to use is the general appearance of the fence, other fences in the area, and tell tale fibres around cracks and so on. Its suprising how so many folks are just oblivious to the dangers around them, so this sort of info is great
November 7th, 2011 at 2:27 pm
Hey Jeff,
Just wondering if this information can be placed into a PDF format.
As a licensed renovations builder, we often come across internal linings etc that could be asbestos, however it is difficult to know how to test quickly on site.
The information here is brilliant, and in a PDf format, we could load it onto an Ipad, as a reference guide.
keep up the great works
Adrien
Eco building Service
November 8th, 2011 at 8:06 pm
Hi Adrien, thanks for reading…that’s a great idea.
You can create a direct PDF of the webpage by using PDFcreator (free to download, just google it). Once installed, select the page you want to print, then select ‘Print’, then select the PDFcreator as your printer, then ‘ok’…that’s it. PDF created.
You can also cut past into a word document, then print as a PDF as well.
If all else fails, I can email you the PDF.
Regards,
Jeff
December 4th, 2011 at 4:47 pm
I have an old 1960 house that had an extension built on to it (well before I bought it). The original Super Six roof (assuming asbestos) is still in pretty darn good nick – excellent really but the extension roof is fracturing on the top and ‘delaminating’ badly – I’m assuming this indicates it’s hardifence ?
December 6th, 2011 at 11:08 pm
Hi John,
I’d love you to send me some photo’s of that. (jeff@asbestosremovalguide.com). As far as I know, Hardifence wasn’t recomended to be used on as roofing material, as it’s inherantly dangerous. You can fall through very easily and get seriously hurt.
The delaminating is interesting, I’ve not seen that on any Hardifence before, this could be a manufacturing defect perhaps?
In any case, looks like you’ll be needing to replace it. Count the the number of corrugations and check for any identifying features to see whether or not it’s asbestos based.
Regards Jeff.
January 23rd, 2012 at 3:02 pm
[...] in the 80s – Super six was 1985. So yes ringtail was joking . . . A good site on fencing is here: How to tell the difference between Super Six and Hardifence | The Asbestos Removal Guide My memory might be wrong, but I think the 6 was for 6" between centres of the corrugations [...]
February 8th, 2012 at 6:43 pm
Hi,
Thanks for this very informative site. I have a few concerns about a house I recently purchased and hoping that you could help me please. The house is about 40 years old (mid-70′s construction) with a shed in the backyard, which the building inspector said it definitely contained asbestos. I had a look and the roof of the shed definitely looks like super six. I also noticed that inside the shed, there were a couple of small holes in the roof. What should I do about these small holes to prevent fibres being released in the air?
Secondly, we removed some vinyl in the laundry area which the previous owner laid in the late 1990′s. I know that this vinyl does not contain asbestos, however, under the vinyl we discovered older tiles…half the laundry had these old tiles and the other half was untiled, just had cement (the previous owner told me it was cement) but it looks like black cement so not sure if this might contain asbestos? I heard that old style wet area tiles (such as the ones in my laundry) will likely contain asbestos. Could I please email you the photos of the laundry floor?
Thirdly, my dad drilled three holes in the ceiling outside the house, the ceiling that’s connected to the fascia. He was going to install some downlights, but when I had a look at the drilled holes, to my horror I realised that the ceiling was fibro! So now we have three holes outside with potential asbestos fibres. I rang an asbestos expert and he said that it’s best to just install the downlights to cover the holes up. He also said for my peace of mind I can also paint the exposed fibres in the holes whilst we await for the downlights to be installed, to prevent any fibres possibly being released into the air. Would I be able to email you photos of these please? What’s the best course of action for me to take regarding these holes?
Thanks, and would greatly appreciate a reply.
February 17th, 2012 at 9:07 am
Hi were the asbestos fences the same width as the newer hardifence? My neighbour replaced a broken hardifence panel with an old marked fence that has 5 ridges I just want to make sure a sevenridge could not be cut down to fit in with the hardifence. Its also not marked hardifence. Its not dark like blue asbestos but I have read of white asbestos too. It would not worry me if it was left untouched but I have a blue heeler that jumps at the fence when the dog next door barks and a toddler who plays outdoors.
Thanks Lisa.
March 11th, 2012 at 8:47 am
very informative site Jeff.
Wondering if you had any info on the issue of asbestos in floor underlay!
We regularly come across the old hessian floor underlay used under carpet.
This hessian is actually recycled, and many people didn’t realise that they were used to transport Asbestos.
Wondering if you had a page available, or dedicated to other forms of asbestos that renovators could be exposed to!
March 11th, 2012 at 9:29 pm
Hi Adrian, That’s correct. Hessian bags used to transport the raw asbestos to asbestos factories were often recylced… some were recycled into carpet underlay, and other uses for the bags were into covering bananas on plantations. This would be from the 1950′s to 70′s and any old original carpet underlay from this period could be possibly contaminated. This recycling practice seems to have been done Australia wide.
Jeff.
March 24th, 2012 at 7:22 pm
[...] this first off to see if you can identify it by looking at it, How to tell the difference between Super Six and Hardifence | The Asbestos Removal Guide regards inter Reply With Quote « Hi there all. | – [...]
September 25th, 2012 at 2:21 pm
Hi Jeff,
Thanks for the information, its great to that this information is available. My husband and I renovated our place a few years back and for some reason over the last couple of months he’s been really concerned we may have been exposed to asbestos. We found some asbestos in the wall of the kitchen and bathroom so stopped and had it removed by a professional. However he is now concerned what we thought was cement sheeting under the tiles in the dining/kitchen area may have been asbestos. It’s a little late now to do anything about it but I do recall asking at the time and was told they didn;t think it was as it had a pinkish rather than blue tinge. Have you come across asbestos being used as the underlay for tiles and is it true about the colour?
Also when we ripped up the carpet we noticed a black stain around the edges of the timber floorboards. We we told it was “black Japan” which was used as waterproofing in the old days. We removed it by basically sanding it off but I’ve been to some sites where they hae mentioned that the black adhesive or glue underneath carpet may also contain asbestos. Just wondering if you have any information on this?
As I said, not sure what we can do but my husband is extrememly worried so I’ve been trying to do some investigation.
Thanks
Rach
October 7th, 2012 at 10:37 pm
Hi Rach, the pinkish tile underlay don’t ring bell for me unfortuantely (if any reader can give a clue here please email me), so I’m unsure about this product.
The ‘Black Japan’ I suspect *does* contain asbestos, as many similar products did. Likewise, glues that held down vinyl tiles and lino from the old days often contained asbestos to increase bond strength. Please don’t sand the old glue off as it may release asbestos fibres. Regards Jeff.
October 9th, 2012 at 9:57 am
Thanks Jeff, there wasn’t glue on the tiles, they were held down with cement on the cement sheeting. I have some photos of the stuff so might see if we can get it digitally enhanced to see if we can make out anything.
October 15th, 2012 at 4:42 pm
Hi i am about to remove about 7 sheets of corregated fencing whish has 11 ridges per sheet is this ashestos sheeting.
October 15th, 2012 at 11:35 pm
Hi Neville, yes that’s asbestos alright. It’s standard profile corrugated sheeting often used in domestic garages and sheds in the 1960/70′s. Sort of like the little brother to Super 6 asbestos sheeting. Handle with care, take all the usual asbestos safety removal and disposal precautions(P2 respirator, disposable overalls etc). Hopefully removal should be a cinch, wrapping and sealing it up in black builders plastic and away with it forever. Jeff.
October 31st, 2012 at 8:09 am
I have just found some sheets that are 81 inches long x 32 inches wide and 1/4 inch thick with 10 or 10 1/2 ridges. it has a coarse grain and has started to flake at the edges. There do not seem to be any markings. Could this be the same as the one above.
November 7th, 2012 at 10:43 pm
Hi Stefan, yes this is standard profile asbestos sheeting. Check my reply to Alan who has the same.
Jeff.
November 24th, 2012 at 2:28 pm
Hi there
We have been in a rental for 8 weeks and from the UK where we don’t generally have much aspestos. We have just realised that the dividing fence is an asbestos one. It’s in generally good condition but there are a few broken bits here and there. As a hyperchondriac I’m beginning to worry about possible health effects. Should I be worried? Thanks for any advice!!
November 25th, 2012 at 9:16 am
Hi Jo,
Sounds like you’re living in Perth. Perth’s sandy soil made asbestos based Super Six particularly popular during the 70′s and early 80′s as it was easy to install and dig in.
From what I know, if the Super Six fencing is left intact and undisturbed, it does not pose a health hazard. I do suspect though, the occasional asbestos fibre will be released due to weathering but any asbestos monitoring would probably show a negative result. I think the big issue with Super Six fences is storm damage and ignorant DIY backyard developers.
Also, is the fencing made from asbestos? Later versions of Super Six were renamed HardiFence do not contain asbestos and are cellulose based fibre cement. Check my guide on identifying Super Six.
Jeff.
November 30th, 2012 at 6:09 pm
Hi jeff, I’ve got super 6 fencing at home and while its been painted there are still a few damaged areas exposed. I can see small bunches of white fibres and just wondering if there would usually be clumps of brown and blue fibres too? I’ve read that super 6 was usually made with white asbestos but have also been told it contained all 3 types. Thanks very much for the helpful site. Anthony.
December 1st, 2012 at 11:55 pm
Hi Anthony,
It depends on the age of the AC sheeting. AC sheeting from the 60′s (Including Super Six) and earlier would more likely to contain mixtures that included blue asbestos (crocidolite) white asbestos and possibly brown asbestos also. However, later production into to 1970′s will contain mostly white asbestos (chrysotile). Blue asbestos was removed from the mix (due to health hazard issues apparently – eyes rolling). Yes, I think a mixture of the 3 different types was like secret formula at one stage, as each asbestos type had different characteristics such as fibre length, shape and cost. Most manufacturers had laboratories set up to constantly experiment with new ways of making products with asbestos.
Would be difficult to visually distinguish between the different fibres types, so lab analysis is required to ascertain true composition.
BTW Brown asbestos was still used in asbestos pipe manufacture into 1980′s, as it gave superior results (stronger and higher pressure pipes could be produced with brown).
Jeff.
December 2nd, 2012 at 11:59 am
Hi Jeff
We have just replaced 10 panels of super six that says on edge haride’s super six underlap 4/8/1988 would that conatin asbestoes?
Thanks
December 2nd, 2012 at 11:35 pm
Hi Donna,
This does not contain asbestos and is cellulose based. It’s an early version of asbestos free Hardifence but still retains the ‘Super Six’ trade name and has the 7 corrugations. Early sheeting like this often has a bad habit of cracking up and falling down if not installed correctly. Pine poles between the corrugations work quite well for support I’ve found. I have similar sheeting such as this on my back fence with the Super Six printed on the end.
Jeff.
December 4th, 2012 at 10:27 pm
Hi Jeff,
Firstly, this is a great site. Secondly my asbestos fence came down in the storm we just had in Perth. It is definitely asbestos – this was confirmed by a fencing contractor who came to look at the panels which had come down (and by me after reading up on how to identify asbestos panels on your site). The fence was split and broken off in a number of places and some pieces fell onto the outdoor unit of my split system air conditioner. We are keeping our children & dogs away from the area, but should I be worried that asbestos fibres got into the unit? I have not turned it on since for fear of sending thousands of microscopic asbestos fibres into our bedroom via the outdoor unit! I would appreciate any advice on this or suggestions as to who I might ask for advice if not yourself.
Thank you again for a great & informative site.
Kathryn
December 5th, 2012 at 12:18 am
Hi Kathryn, Fencing contractor’s dream storm that. Good to hear you have positively identified the material as asbestos. Not sure if your doing the clean up yourself, but it’s fairly straight forward. You’ll need the P2 respiratory mask, gloves, disposable overalls… all available at the local harware store. Some black plastic sheeting and plastic bags. Wrap all the broken sheeting in black plastic and seal with tape and collect all the tiny broken fragments and put in the plastic bag.
‘Wet’ sweep the bricks or concrete, hopefully this water will go down the nearest soakwell. Wipe over any tables or chairs in the vicinity with a damp cloth, dispose of cloth with asbestos waste.
Aircon: You mention aircon is a split system, which means it doesn’t take air in from the outside unit. The unit on the ouside is just the condenser and sends coolant though pipes into the house which has a separate blower unit. (hence the name ‘Split System’). This is good news, as it means any contamination will stay outside. (unlike an evaporative system which does take outside air). Ideally, the external unit should be cleaned, but may require some dissasembly similar to routine maintenance to clean the dust out. If you were not using the aircon at the time, I suspect there would be very little dust drawn into unit anyway. Don’t spray water directly into the unit, as there is live electricity inside!
Jeff.
December 8th, 2012 at 10:45 pm
Thank- you so much for your answer Jeff – that is very reassuring! We won’t be doing the full clean-up ourselves, but when we are tidying up your instructions will come in very handy, to myself and many others I am sure. Thanks again.
January 8th, 2013 at 8:53 pm
Hi Jeff,
My house was built in April 1986 and used super six fencing. the recent storm damaged the fence and we replaced the fence with colorbond.
Now I’m really worried, my little boy was inside the house when they worked on the fence but we didn’t close the door. and the person do the repair job for us just cut the fence and leave bit and pieces everywhere, I read your article, it said that the production of asbestos super six ceased in 1985.
Do I need to take the sample test to see if this is still asbestos super six. I just feel so so worried about my little boy, now I don’t let him play outside near the fence.
Thanks in advance
Sandy
January 11th, 2013 at 11:33 pm
Hi Sandy,
If you’re lucky this could cellulose based Hardifence, in which case there is no problem. However, if it’s the original fence from 1986, take into account use of ‘New Old Stock’ie last production asbestos sheets warehoused for a few years, then put onto the market.
Also, be aware of second hand asbestos sheets *reused* to repair previous storm damage (often asbestos Super-Six sheets were sold second hand in 80′s and 90′s).
Being your house is mid 80′s vintage, it would be wise never to jump to conclusions about the composition of fence sheeting. Assume nothing about the material until it has been positively identified.
So you’re going to have to grab some of the left overs for sampling, put them in a small plastic bag and get them lab tested.
Jeff.
January 18th, 2013 at 4:48 pm
Hi Jeff
Sandy here again, thanks for your reply. Can you please have a look at this photo. it is the other remaining fence. I saw the marking on the side, it says super six but no year. it only 11:15 at the end, not sure if this is the year. and we just put the metal cap on.
http://imageshack.us/f/138/img0929c.jpg/
Thanks in advance
Sandy
January 22nd, 2013 at 10:02 pm
Hi Sandy, I reckon this is cellulosed based Super Six (Hardifence).. and it looks to read: ‘xx/xx/88 Hardies Super Six Underlap 11:15′
I think this is dated 1988. It’s early profile (7 ridges) sheeting but still retains the ‘Super SiX’ tradename and often had the metal capping on the top but is cellulose based fibre cement. I’ve got similar on my back fence actually. Therefore it does not contain asbestos. Congratulations. Jeff.
January 29th, 2013 at 9:35 am
Hi Jeff
I recently had a fencing contractor come to replace my asbestos fencing. In parts of the replacement they have snapped the fencing at the base for whatever reason. There was a section where concrete was attached to it on one side so would have been very difficult to remove but other parts couldn’t see why they didn’t dig it right out? Anyway my main concern is now it has been snapped what can I do? Is this dangerous should I be doing something?
thanks Natalie
January 29th, 2013 at 11:23 pm
Hi Natalie, Yeah I’m curious to why they didn’t dig it out either. Unless it interferes with neighours garden or similar I’d prefer the old stuff be removed.
The other aspect is of course breaking the sheets. If the sheeting is modern Hardifence (cellulose based) then no health risks associated. However if the material is asbestos based (such as Super Six), the breakage will release asbestos fibres, which is pretty risky and dangerous
Call them back, speak to the boss and ask them why the old sheeting was left in the ground. I’m guessing they are just saving time by leaving the old stuff there.
While you’re waiting, you might want to take some photos for future reference and examine what’s left of the old sheeting to determine if it’s asbestos or not. Always be prepared if a dispute arises.
Jeff.
January 30th, 2013 at 8:38 am
HI Jeff
Yes its definitely asbestos it was identified prior to the job. I phoned him back yesterday and he said some of it was caught up in roots retic etc, he’s going to see what he can pull out. for what’s left that’s exposed ie stuck in the concrete what can I do with the parts that can’t be pulled out. Should I concrete over the top to contain? Not really keen having the loose fibres exposed.
thanks
Natalie
February 4th, 2013 at 10:06 pm
Hi Natalie, Yes have them clean up all the broken pieces properly. Should be fine to concrete over the area as a precaution providing it doesn’t interfere with the new fence.
Jeff.
February 28th, 2013 at 7:44 am
Hi Jeff.
Sandy Here again. My house is built in 1986. and I think it is brick wall. Do you think the (Vinyl floor tiles) in the kitchen and the (white plaster) in the wall contain asbestos.
I think my Vinyl floor tiles is one big sheet blued to the floor.
My kid plays and hit the wall with his toys often. I see the white plaster behind the paint. Will this pose any health risk?
This asbestos thing really worries me.
Thanks in advance
Sandy
March 4th, 2013 at 10:26 pm
Hi Jeff,
After reading all the interesting comments and your great answers here, I was wondering if you could help.
The asbestos fence in the house we rent on the Gold Coast was damaged in the January QLD ex-cyclone Oswald storms. The fence was broken in several places by a tree falling onto it. Two fencing contractors have attended and confirmed it is asbestos.
We are still waiting for it to be fixed and I’m wondering what our risk is in the meantime.
Firstly, it has been raining a lot since the storm damage, so I understand that this lessens the risk of dust etc. However, our dog gets in close to the fence and says hello to the neighbours dog through the gaps in the broken asbestos fence. He then comes inside and walks on our carpet. Could he be carrying asbestos particles in with him?
Possibly even more worrying is that another section of the fence has had breaks and cracks in it ever since we moved in 3 years ago. We didn’t know it was asbestos. I have now requested an Asbestos Inspection be carried out on the property.
Any advice would be very much appreciated.
Thanks very much,
Lisa
March 4th, 2013 at 10:38 pm
Hi Sandy,
Your kids are pretty safe. Plaster does not contain asbestos and the vinyl tiles (or Lino) from the mid 1980′s onwards is quite unlikely to contain asbestos.
Jeff.
March 5th, 2013 at 12:08 am
Hi Lisa, Storm damage and AC sheeting is a real problem, with smashed sheeting going all over the place, it makes for stacks of time consuming work in the clean up. Bushfires and burnt houses made from AC sheeting is even worse!. Sounds like your smashed fence is not too extensive, I’m thinking you can easily make start in the cleanup process yourself while you wait for the contractors. You’ll need a P2 respirator mask, gloves and a plastic bags. Locate and pick up any smashed pieces where the damage has occured and put them in the plastic bags. When the contractor gets to replace the broken sheets include your pick ups with the rest of the waste. The contractor will probably wrap everything up in black plastic and send it off for disposal. In the mean time you can have peace of mind.
I reckon the dog wouldn’t have any fibres on his/her paws of significance, so is little to worry about. You can get the contractors to replace the other broken section of the fence, if you have the budget, if not then think painting it, this will seal it.
Jeff.
March 5th, 2013 at 10:38 am
Thanks for the great advice Jeff.
Best Regards,
Lisa
April 2nd, 2013 at 9:14 pm
Hi Jeff
My house was built in 1985 the fence I removed had seven ripples not thinking on the spur of the moment I ripped it down should I be concerned about it and should I get myself checked out
April 4th, 2013 at 12:22 am
Hi Gerry, have you got any samples left over? Super Six with 7 corrugations came in asbestos and non asbestos versions (later called HardiFence). How old was the fence?
Jeff.
April 4th, 2013 at 12:25 am
Hi Gerry, no need to worry. The plaster doesn’t contain asbestos and the ceiling is very unlikely to contain asbestos either.
Jeff.
April 10th, 2013 at 4:53 am
Hi Jeff.
I’m also worried about asbestos in the plaster wall of my house which was built in 1985 or 1986 I think.
Can you look at this photo here http://www.flickr.com/photos/asbestos_pix/3426983929/
Not sure if this is US only or in Australia as well.
Thanks
Kevin
April 12th, 2013 at 11:30 pm
Hi Kevin, The Asbestorama’s photostream has some amazing photos of how asbestos was used, simply mind boggling. Looks like lathen plaster walls in the United States can contain asbestos. I haven’t heard of it being present in Australia plaster.
Fortunately, your Aussie 1985/86 plaster wall is quite safe, so no need to worry.
Jeff.
May 2nd, 2013 at 2:29 pm
Hi Jeff,
My house is built in 1986 I think.
I need to repaint my door, because some paint peeled off. Do you think will there be any asbestos in the paint.
Is it safe to do some scraping and sanding.
Thanks
Jason
May 9th, 2013 at 11:01 pm
Hi Jason, The door should be safe. Usually, the concern with paint in not asbestos, but LEAD. But fortunately, I’m pretty sure lead was phased out in paints by the 1980′s (domestic type paint that is…industrial / automotive paints may still have had lead). In any case, still wear a general dust mask while scraping and sanding.
Jeff.
May 24th, 2013 at 8:01 am
I have just moved to a house that is 2 years old. There is fencing on one side and I think it’s Hardifence but I want to make sure. It has five ridges, metal capping but no markings and does not leave a mark when scratched. The house on he other side of the fence is also about two years old.
Thanks,
JT
May 24th, 2013 at 3:17 pm
Hello Jeff,
Thank you for your wesite, it is good to have some easy to access information.
My partner and our two children have just moved into a rental property and discovered, through my partner’s uncle who is a qualified Asbestoes remover, that the fencing and some of the capping is asbestos.
There are sevral spots that are broken, a broken piece that is sticking out of garden and a large hole toards the rear of the fence where there is a large palm.
I have never lived in a home with this fencing before and dont want to be worry wart, over react or cause problems with the real estate but should I be concerend about state of the fence or is it ok?
Thank you so much for your help
May 24th, 2013 at 8:10 pm
Hi JT,
That would be modern Hardifence and is made from cellulose based fibre cement.. therefore not a worry.
Jeff.
May 24th, 2013 at 11:02 pm
Hi Michelle,
Not really too much to worry about here, unless you have pieces of
broken sheeting on a driveway or path.
Original Super Six fences are still quite common around the suburbs
and are often found as good as the day they were installed and many have
stood the test of time, albeit some are slightly dirty.
Unfortunately, Super Six fences are not indestructable and many
fences have been damaged, such as having holes bashed through them
and edges knocked off due to impact of various objects and even cars
crashing into them.
Fortunately, this type of asbestos cement sheeting is quite stable
and resists weathering extremely well. Very few asbestos fibres are
released during normal survice and when left alone.
When damage does occur to the fence, yes, fibres will be released at
the time of breakage, however the broken edges don’t present any
more of an asbestos release danger than non broken edges. Beware, broken edges may be sharp, so be careful… and…
The broken pieces may present a danger if they fall onto a driveway, road or path where they can be subject further mechanical action such as being run over by a car! I’ve seen this many times, broken AC sheeting in back alleys or in driveways. Each time a car runs over the broken pieces, this sends up asbestos fibres all over the place. It’s a good idea to pick up these broken pieces immediately, if damage does occur to your Super Six fence.
Jeff.
May 28th, 2013 at 12:44 am
Hi Jeff,
Again, thanks for providing this info free of charge.
I am currently purchasing a house in Brisbane that is confirmed to have a Super 6 roof. The building inspector mentioned that its actually a very good product, except for that one thing…of course!
He’s also said that the internal walls are fibrous and likely to contain asbestos. There are couple of holes in the walls where the door handle has broken through it. I’m guessing these holes should be repaired ASAP to prevent any fibres entering the air.
Whilst its not a fence question, your knowledge on all things asbestos seems to be extremely high.
Thanks again,
Darren
June 3rd, 2013 at 1:16 pm
Hi there
Little did we know that when we bought our new house in Auckland, NZ our Neighbour had quite an old weathered super 6 asbestos fence running hidden behind our fence. Upon moving in I arranged to have it remover excePt a small remaining piece not on our property. Can you tell me what are the chances of the soil below the fence and close by being contaminated and what if any risk does that pose? I did subsequently dig out the fenceline and disposed of the soil through a contractor. Sadly I’m still concerned as we have a cat that often digs up near the fence and then comes into the house. My concern is for my young children. Any reassurance or advice will be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks
Lawrence
June 4th, 2013 at 7:42 pm
Hi jeff,
I share a fence with a neighbour that we are replacing and was wondering if you could advice. Our fencing has a dimple pattern over the entire fence – would this contain asbestos? It has 7 ridges – just to confuse things. Are the dimples used to show it doesn’t use asbestos? I am located in perth if that helps. Cheers
Scotty
June 4th, 2013 at 7:53 pm
Hi jeff – Scotty again – I think I might need to clarify that the pattern is a raised dot every 18mm over the entire board- not so much a dimple but an actual raised dot about 2-3mm in size.
Cheers
Scotty
June 4th, 2013 at 10:24 pm
Hi Scotty, This would be either original asbestos SuperSix or early style cellulose based HardiFence. A few more things for you to check are:
1. Capping type: Metal, fibro or no capping on the top of the fence.
2. Fastening bolts & diamond shaped washers (if any)
3. Manufacturer markings (might be hard to see): Early style HardiFence has date of manufacture and sometimes the words “Does not contain asbestos”
4. Close examination of any cracks or breaks with a magifying glass. Often you can see fibre bundles sticking out if it’s Super-Six asbestos.
The raised dot pattern does make me think this is early HardiFence (non asbestos)but this alone is not conclusive… check other characteristics above for more evidence.
Jeff.
June 5th, 2013 at 6:12 am
Hi Jeff
Any thoughts regarding my question over soil being contaminated below asbestos fences? I know it’s a little ambigious I guess I’m just keen to know what the general run off is from this product once it starts to weather and if it is a concern. If you are unable to answer then no panic. Many thanks.
June 5th, 2013 at 7:25 pm
Hi jeff,
Thanks for getting back so quickly. I was just looking at your photos again and noticed that the image above the
Number 3 – titled markings – the one with the I diamond washer and cracked fence, is the same raised dot that I have so I think it’s hardifence – but will get the magnifying glass out to make sure! Thanks for your help!
Scotty
June 5th, 2013 at 10:17 pm
Hi Lawrence,
I would class this as low risk. Fortunately Super Six AC sheeting remains stable over long periods and given that Super Six fencing is installed in the upright position this reduces weathering even further. Even with the occasional broken piece of AC sheeting in the ground the risk is still low as the fibres remain locked up in the cement. I would estimate there to be a minute number of fibres in the soil due to initial installation and removal, and these would be few and far between. Since you’ve removed some of the nearby soil, this would eliminate the risk even further. The risk of the cat bringing fibres into your house is virtually nil I’d say.
Jeff.
June 5th, 2013 at 10:39 pm
Hi Darren, Thanks for that. Glad to hear your building inspector has located all the AC sheeting in the house. Repair the hole in the wall by glueing (Liquid Nails works well) some galvanized sheet metal over the hole. Glueing Hardiflex over the break will also work, but doesn’t look that great. Alternatively you can replace the entire sheet with a new section of Hardiflex.
Jeff.
June 6th, 2013 at 3:31 am
Hi Jeff
Many thanks for your reply. Feeling a little more reassured although weather conditions here are much wetter causing lichen to grow on the surface of the fence presumably causing it to breakdown further. I have raised the issue with the neighbour but he is old and retired and not that we’ll off. Added to which the remaining piece is just over the fence from our property.
Lawrence
June 7th, 2013 at 11:11 am
Hey Jeff
Emailed you a handful of images to look at yesterday at jeff@asbestosremovalguide.com
Many thanks again
Lawrence
June 12th, 2013 at 1:41 pm
Thank you so much Jeff,
I feel a lot more at ease after your response.
The agent has contacted me since and has been really good about it all. The owners are looking to have the fence replaced as soon as they can but at least in the meantime I know I dont need to stress.
Thanks again