Asbestos was commonly used in the manufacturing of roof shingles, particularly during the mid-20th century, due to its durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties. These shingles were made by mixing asbestos fibers with cement or asphalt, creating a strong, long-lasting roofing material.
However, the use of asbestos in roof shingles and other building materials has been greatly reduced or banned in many countries due to the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause serious illnesses, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the chest and abdomen. The risk is particularly high during the installation, repair, or removal of asbestos-containing materials, as these activities can release asbestos fibers into the air.
If you are experiencing any of these health issues as a result of asbestos exposure, please reach out to Bailey & Glasser, LLP. We provide a no-obligation consultation to help you understand your legal rights and options. Contact us today to discuss your situation.
Roof Shingles and Asbestos
Asbestos-cement shingles were made by mixing asbestos fibers with Portland cement and water. The mixture was then pressed into molds to form shingles of various sizes and shapes. Asbestos fibers, typically making up about 10-15% of the total composition, were added to the cement to enhance the strength and durability of the shingles. These shingles were known for their longevity, fire resistance, and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Manufacturers often marketed these shingles as a modern and innovative solution for roofing, highlighting their longevity, fire-resistant properties, and cost-effectiveness. This led to widespread use in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Asbestos roof shingles were used in the following ways:
- Barns
- Industrial buildings
- Residential properties
- Schools
- Sheds
Manufacturers of Asbestos Containing Roof Shingles
The manufacturing of asbestos-containing roof shingles was a significant industry, particularly in the mid-20th century, when the use of asbestos in construction materials was at its peak. Various manufacturers around the world produced these shingles, capitalizing on the desirable properties of asbestos, such as its durability, fire resistance, and insulation capabilities.
Some of the manufacturers of asbestos roof shingles included:
- GAF Corporation: This company was a manufacturer of construction and roofing supplies.
- Johns Manville: A large company that supplied construction materials, Johns Manville produced a range of roof shingles.
- National Gypsum: Produced construction materials with their Gold Bond label. Some of the products included shingles, siding, cement wallboard, and adhesives, among others.
- The Flintkote Company: Established in 1901, The Flintkote Company produced roofing supplies, including cement, shingles and siding.
Asbestos Exposure from Roof Shingles
Exposure to asbestos from roof shingles can lead to several serious health issues. Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in construction materials, including roof shingles, due to their durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties. However, when asbestos fibers are disturbed and become airborne, they pose significant health risks upon inhalation. The main health issues associated with asbestos exposure include:
- Asbestosis: This is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. The fibers cause scarring in the lungs, leading to progressive lung fibrosis. Symptoms include shortness of breath, a persistent, dry cough, chest tightness or pain, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. Asbestosis is a slowly progressive disease and can severely impact the quality of life.
- Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, especially among smokers. This type of cancer forms in the lung tissue, usually in the cells lining the air passages. Symptoms may include coughing, changes in breathing, shortness of breath, persistent chest pain, hoarseness, and anemia.
- Mesothelioma: This is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) but can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or heart (pericardium). Mesothelioma is strongly linked to asbestos exposure and may not develop until decades after the exposure. Symptoms include chest pain, painful coughing, shortness of breath, unusual lumps of tissue under the skin on your chest, and weight loss.
- Pleural Thickening or Plaques: Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause pleural thickening, which is the thickening and hardening of the pleura (the lining surrounding the lungs). This can lead to chest pain and breathing difficulties. Pleural plaques are areas of fibrous thickening on the pleura and are indicative of asbestos exposure but may not cause symptoms.
- Other Respiratory Conditions: Exposure to asbestos can also cause other respiratory issues, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pleurisy.
The risk of developing these conditions depends on several factors, including the intensity and duration of exposure to asbestos, the type of asbestos fibers, and individual susceptibility. Smoking also significantly increases the risk of lung cancer in people exposed to asbestos.
Occupations Affected by Asbestos-Containing Roof Shingles
The use of asbestos-containing roof shingles had a significant impact on various occupations, particularly those involved in the construction, maintenance, and demolition of buildings. Workers in these professions were at an increased risk of asbestos exposure, especially before the health risks were widely recognized and protective regulations were implemented.
- Carpenters
- Construction workers
- Demolition workers
- Factory workers
- Firefighters
- Laborers
- Remodelers
- Roofers
- Service and Repair Workers
The exposure to asbestos fibers among these workers has been linked to serious health issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. The latency period between exposure and the onset of symptoms can be several decades, which complicates the detection and treatment of asbestos-related diseases.
As awareness of the dangers of asbestos grew, regulations and safety practices were implemented to protect workers. These include the use of protective gear, proper ventilation, and specific procedures for handling and disposing of asbestos-containing materials. Today, the handling of asbestos is strictly regulated in many countries, and there is a significant effort to train workers in safe practices when dealing with asbestos-containing materials.
Roof Shingles Asbestos Exposure Compensation Options
It’s important to note that the health issues associated with asbestos often have a long latency period, meaning they can take many years, or even decades, to develop after the initial exposure. Therefore, if you’ve been exposed to asbestos, even many years ago, you should inform your doctor and monitor your health for any signs or symptoms related to these conditions.
After seeking medical attention, get in touch with Bailey & Glasser, LLP as soon as possible. We can provide you with the vital information, support and legal resources you need to move toward the future.
