Removing asbestos siding is a crucial but complex task, primarily due to the health risks involved with handling asbestos. This guide provides an in-depth look into the costs associated with the removal of asbestos siding, covering everything from per square foot costs to the expenses involved in various siding sizes and replacement options.
Key Takeaways
- Cost per Square Foot: Typically ranges from $7 to $10.
- Average Total Cost for Small Scale Removal (100 SF): Between $700 and $1,000.
- Average Cost for Whole House Removal (2,000 SF): Between $14,000 and $20,000.
- Labor Costs: Comprise a significant portion of the total expenses due to the need for specialized safety measures and procedures.
- Replacement Options: Include a variety of materials like vinyl, aluminum, and more, affecting the total cost post-asbestos removal.
Cost to Remove Asbestos Siding by Size
Understanding the scale of your project is crucial in planning for asbestos siding removal. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to pay based on the size of the removal area:
| Removal Area (SF) | Average Total Cost |
|---|---|
| 500 | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| 1,000 | $7,000 – $10,000 |
| 1,500 | $10,500 – $15,000 |
| 2,000 | $14,000 – $20,000 |
| 2,500 | $17,500 – $25,000 |
These figures illustrate how costs can escalate with the size of the area from which asbestos is being removed.
Average Asbestos Siding Removal Cost
The national average costs are as follows:
- Minimum Cost: $3,500
- Maximum Cost: $25,000
- Average Range: $14,000 to $20,000
This data gives a clear picture of what homeowners can expect to pay on average for full asbestos siding removal projects.
Asbestos Siding Removal Cost Breakdown
Labor Cost to Remove Asbestos Siding
The majority of the expense in asbestos removal comes from labor costs. Specialized professionals must be hired to handle the hazardous materials safely and comply with all local and federal regulations.
Cost to Replace Asbestos Siding
Once asbestos siding is removed, homeowners will consider various siding replacement options, each with different cost implications:
| Material | Cost per SF Installed | Average Total Cost (2,500 SF) |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Siding | $4 – $12 | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Aluminum Siding | $6 – $10 | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Brick Siding | $8 – $18 | $20,000 – $45,000 |
| Cedar Siding | $6 – $16 | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Engineered Wood Siding | $5 – $15 | $12,500 – $37,500 |
| Fiber Cement Siding | $6 – $15 | $15,000 – $37,500 |
| Log Siding | $5 – $15 | $12,500 – $37,500 |
| Masonite Siding | $4 – $8 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Metal/Steel Siding | $6 – $16 | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Stucco | $3 – $9 | $7,500 – $15,000 |
Choosing the right material will depend on both budgetary constraints and aesthetic preferences.
Asbestos Siding Removal FAQs
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals used in building materials for its resistance to heat, electricity, and corrosion. It is hazardous when disturbed as its fibers can be inhaled and cause serious health issues.
How do I know if I have asbestos siding?
Typically, homes built before the 1980s may contain asbestos materials. If your siding has not been replaced since then, it might contain asbestos. Testing by a certified professional can confirm its presence.
Is asbestos siding removal covered by insurance?
Most insurance policies do not cover asbestos removal unless it’s disturbed by a covered peril. Check with your provider for specifics.
Can I remove asbestos siding myself?
Due to the hazardous nature of asbestos, removal is not recommended as a DIY project. It requires professional handling and proper disposal per legal standards.
Does asbestos siding have to be removed?
No, if the asbestos siding is in good condition and not disturbed, it does not pose a risk. However, removal might be necessary during remodeling or if it deteriorates.
Getting Estimates from Asbestos Siding Removal Companies
When seeking professional help, it’s vital to get multiple estimates. Here are some questions to guide you:
- What is included in your estimate?
- Are you licensed and insured for asbestos removal?
- Can you provide references?
- How long will the project take?
Comparing answers from different providers will help you choose the right contractor for your asbestos siding removal project.
Asbestos Siding Encapsulation
Encapsulation is an alternative to removal, involving the application of a sealant that binds the asbestos fibers and prevents them from being airborne. This method is typically less expensive than removal and can be a practical solution if the asbestos siding is in stable condition. The cost of encapsulation can vary, but it generally ranges between $2 to $6 per square foot, depending on the products used and the complexity of the application.
Asbestos Siding Covering
Covering asbestos siding is another alternative to removal. This method involves installing new siding over the existing asbestos siding. While this method can save on the cost of removal, it requires careful handling to avoid disturbing the asbestos underneath. Costs for covering asbestos siding will largely depend on the type of siding material chosen for the new outer layer.
Asbestos Siding Removal FAQs (Continued)
Does asbestos siding have to be removed?
While it’s not mandatory to remove asbestos siding if it remains undisturbed and intact, any renovation or damage repair that involves disturbing the siding will require it to be handled according to strict safety regulations. Removal might become necessary to prevent health risks or to comply with local building codes during significant home renovations.
Can I remove asbestos siding myself?
Removing asbestos siding yourself is not recommended. Asbestos removal requires specific safety procedures, including proper gear, equipment, and disposal methods that comply with local and federal laws. Hiring certified professionals ensures that the removal process is safe and legally compliant.
Is asbestos siding removal covered by insurance?
In most cases, asbestos removal is not covered by homeowner’s insurance unless the asbestos was disturbed by a qualifying event, such as a fire or storm. However, policies vary, so it’s important to speak directly with your insurance provider to understand what is covered under your specific policy.
How do I know if I have asbestos siding?
The presence of asbestos in siding is not always easy to determine by appearance alone. Homes built before the 1980s might have used asbestos-containing materials. If you suspect your siding contains asbestos, the safest approach is to have it inspected by a certified asbestos inspector who can take samples and test them in a lab.
Getting Estimates from Asbestos Siding Removal Companies
Questions to Ask
When you’re ready to contact professional asbestos removal companies, here are some essential questions to ask:
- Are you certified for asbestos removal? Ensure that the contractor has the necessary certifications and licenses to handle asbestos.
- What is your experience with asbestos removal? Experience matters when dealing with hazardous materials.
- Can you provide references? Ask for and follow up with references to check the quality of their previous jobs.
- How will you handle the disposal of the asbestos materials? Disposal needs to be done in accordance with legal and environmental standards.
- What safety measures do you implement during the removal process? The contractor should be able to detail the safety protocols they follow.
- What is your quote for the project? Make sure you get a detailed quote that includes all potential costs.
It’s important to get multiple quotes to compare prices and service offerings. This ensures you not only get competitive pricing but also hire a contractor who is thorough and compliant with all safety and legal requirements.
By thoroughly vetting potential contractors and understanding the complexities involved in asbestos siding removal, homeowners can make informed decisions to safely manage this hazardous material. Remember, the health risks associated with improper handling of asbestos are severe, so professional removal is always recommended.
