Spray Foam Roofing and Asbestos: Everything You Need to Know

Many older commercial buildings have asbestos-containing roofing materials — particularly buildings constructed before the 1980s. Here's how spray foam relates to this situation.

Common Asbestos-Containing Roofing Materials

Asbestos was used in various roofing products including: transite panels (corrugated cement-asbestos panels), certain modified bitumen products, some flat roof flashings, and roofing mastics and adhesives. A licensed asbestos inspector can identify whether your roof contains asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

Can Spray Foam Go Over Asbestos-Containing Roofing?

In many cases, yes — and this is a significant advantage of spray foam. Rather than disturbing ACMs through tear-off (which would require costly regulated abatement), foam can be applied directly over intact, non-friable ACMs, encapsulating them in place. The Jabala Military Base project in West Roofing's history involved exactly this scenario — foam was applied over transite panels containing asbestos, encapsulating the material without abatement.

When Encapsulation Is Appropriate

Encapsulation is appropriate when the ACMs are in good condition (not friable — meaning they don't crumble easily) and can be physically covered without disturbing them. When ACMs are deteriorated or must be physically disturbed, licensed abatement is required before any work proceeds.

Regulatory Compliance

Always consult with a licensed asbestos inspector before any roofing work on a building suspected of containing ACMs. Regulations vary by jurisdiction. Your roofing contractor should be aware of the applicable requirements.