Rehabilitation of fibrocement toofs: is it a beneficial investment for the future?
The rehabilitation of fibrocement roofs is a topic that sparks interest for both safety and economic reasons. Although this type of roofing was a popular solution in the past, the presence of asbestos raises health concerns, and the gradual deterioration necessitates careful assessment.
Considering these concerns, many homeowners face the dilemma: does this investment truly pay off in the long run? At Prudêncio, we firmly believe that it does, and we will explain why. Despite seeming like a significant investment, when analyzing the benefits and durability of current solutions, it becomes clear that this is a strategic decision for the future.
Prudêncio’s project – Rehabilitation of fiber cement roofing of Mediapro
The context of fiber cement roofing
In the past, this solution was widely used due to its affordable initial cost and its durability. However, over time, concerns have arisen regarding wear and the dangers associated with asbestos, a component that was included in the production of fiber cement until 2005* in a proportion ranging from 10 to 20%.
For health reasons, fiber cement roofing—now commonly referred to as natural cement because it does not contain asbestos—uses other fibers, such as fiberglass or cellulose, to ensure user safety and minimize environmental impact.
* Decree-Law No. 101/2005, of June 23: prohibits the use and commercialization of asbestos fibers and products containing these fibers.
First of all: what are the immediate costs?
Choosing to rehabilitate a fibercement roof can involve several steps and, consequently, associated costs:
- Inspection and diagnosis: assessing the current condition of the roof to plan the appropriate intervention (Prudêncio does not charge its clients for this service).
- Repair of the structure or reinforcement of fixings: correction of structural anomalies to ensure the integrity and safety of the rehabilitation system.
- Encapsulation of fibercement with asbestos: a solution developed by Prudêncio that confines and protects fibercement from the causes that lead to its degradation, using modern technologies to provide thermal comfort and protect buildings from leaks, extending their lifespan by several decades.
And now: what are the benefits?
Our rehabilitation offers a safe, comfortable, and effective solution to preserve the integrity of buildings and the health of their inhabitants. When fiber cement begins to deteriorate, the damage can be extensive and require complex and costly repairs.
Therefore, addressing the issue proactively ensures that the roofing continues to protect the building for many years, avoiding the need for complete replacements that can be more expensive, time-consuming, risky, and inconvenient.
Durability and resilience
Fiber cement is known for its strength and longevity, but over time, it can wear down. Choosing the appropriate rehabilitation ensures that the roofing will continue to function effectively, protecting the building against leaks and structural damage.
Additionally, and very importantly, by preventing the degradation of fiber cement, the risk of asbestos fiber release is also eliminated. Modern solutions and suitable rehabilitation techniques ensure an extended lifespan, minimizing the need for frequent and costly interventions while simultaneously safeguarding the health of people and the environment.
Energy efficiency and cost reduction
A rehabilitated roof not only improves protection against the elements but also contributes to the energy efficiency of the building. The application of new waterproofing and thermal insulation layers can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills and increased comfort. In the long term, these savings can allow for the recovery of the initial investment in rehabilitation.
Property appreciation
Investing in rehabilitation can also significantly increase the market value of the property. A well-maintained roof without the risks of exposed asbestos cement on the exterior is a decisive factor for potential buyers and can enhance the property’s appeal. Therefore, this investment not only preserves the current value but also contributes to its future appreciation.
Safety and health
These are two absolute priorities. Fiber cement, being a material that may contain asbestos, requires specific precautions during the rehabilitation process to protect the health of workers and occupants of the building.
The removal of fiber cement that contains asbestos can pose a significant health risk due to the potential release of hazardous fibers. Therefore, our recommended approach is encapsulation, a technique that not only minimizes health risks but also reduces risks to buildings and activities carried out within them, as well as the bureaucratic complications associated with the replacement process.
At Prudêncio, we have developed an advanced approach that confines and protects fiber cement from the causes of its degradation. We start by applying a lightweight metal framework that reinforces the roofing, ensures the safety of workers during application, and allows the entire system to be secured without handling the fiber cement, thus avoiding the risk of fiber release. We attach thermal insulation PIR panels to this framework, to which Köster TPO waterproofing membranes will be glued, ensuring thermal efficiency and superior waterproofing.
This system not only extends the lifespan of the roof but also protects the fiber cement panels against physical damage, offering a safe and sustainable solution that respects health and the environment, while facilitating the maintenance tasks of the roofing.
Sustainability and environmental impact
Rehabilitating rather than replacing fiber cement roofs is a conscious decision that reduces environmental impact and promotes a circular economy. By doing this, we decrease the need for new materials and the amount of waste generated. Furthermore, modern techniques utilize eco-friendly materials and sustainable approaches, aligning with the best practices of sustainable construction.
Prudêncio’s project – Rehabilitation of fiber cement roofing of Nave in Marvila
An investment with lasting impact
More than just a maintenance issue, this is a strategic investment that offers enduring benefits. With superior durability, greater energy efficiency, increased property value, and reduced environmental impact, the advantages are clear in the long term.
At Prudêncio, we combine knowledge and experience to transform this investment into success, ensuring maximum quality and return for our clients.
Want to learn more about how the rehabilitation of fiber cement roofs can benefit your property? Contact us and discover how we can help you make the right choice for the future of your building.
