Everything You Need to Know About Asbestos Shingles

Asbestos Shingles TL;DR

Asbestos shingles were a popular roofing material from the 1920s through the 1980s because they were affordable, durable, and fire-resistant. Today, they pose serious health risks if disturbed, since asbestos fibers can cause lung disease and cancer. If your roof still has asbestos shingles, you should never try to remove them yourself. Call a licensed professional for inspection, removal, or replacement. Safer alternatives include asphalt, metal, and synthetic roofing materials.

What Are Asbestos Shingles?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once known as a “miracle material” because of its heat resistance and strength. Beginning in the early 1900s, it was mixed with Portland cement to make roofing shingles that were fireproof, durable in harsh weather, and relatively inexpensive. Asbestos shingles became common in homes across the U.S. by the 1920s and stayed popular through the mid-20th century.

Why Was Asbestos Banned?

By the 1970s, medical research proved that asbestos fibers, when inhaled, could cause severe health issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Because of this, the U.S. began phasing out asbestos in the late 1970s. By the 1980s, asbestos shingles were no longer manufactured, though many older homes in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware still have them.

How Old Are Asbestos Shingles?

Most asbestos shingles were installed between the 1920s and the late 1970s, which means if your home still has them, they are at least 40 years old and possibly close to 100. That age alone is a major red flag. Roofing materials naturally wear out, and asbestos shingles get brittle as they age. Once they start cracking, they’re not just ineffective — they can release asbestos fibers into the air.

If you own a mid-century home in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware, there’s a good chance asbestos shingles were part of the original construction. Even if they’ve been painted or covered over, the shingles underneath are still aging. At that point, it’s not just about curb appeal — it’s about safety and whether your roof can continue to protect your home.

When Were Asbestos Shingles Banned?

The U.S. government began phasing out asbestos in construction materials in 1978, after health risks became undeniable. By the 1980s, asbestos shingles were no longer being manufactured or sold.

It’s important to note that asbestos isn’t completely banned in the United States — some products still contain trace amounts. But when it comes to roofing, asbestos shingles are considered obsolete and unsafe. If your home still has them, that places your roof squarely in the “replacement needed” category.

Types of Asbestos Shingles

Not all asbestos shingles look exactly the same. Homeowners may come across a few variations depending on when and how they were installed:

• Cement-asbestos shingles → The most common type, flat and durable, usually gray or slate-colored. They were designed to mimic slate but are lighter and more uniform in size.

• Corrugated asbestos panels → Wavy sheets that were often used on barns, garages, sheds, and outbuildings. These are especially common in rural areas of PA and NJ.

• Decorative asbestos shingles → Some were manufactured to resemble wood shakes or to add a “textured” look to homes. They can be tricky to spot without testing because they look similar to other siding or roofing products.

Understanding the type can help your contractor determine the safest approach for removal or covering.

What Do Asbestos Shingles Look Like?

Asbestos shingles can be tricky to identify because they were designed to imitate other common roofing materials. In general, they have:

• A dense, cement-like texture — heavier than asphalt, not as layered.

• Straight, uniform edges — often square or rectangular, unlike irregular natural slate or wood shakes.

• Gray, faded, or mottled coloring — although many were painted over the years, the original material is usually dull gray.

• Flat profile — they don’t have the layered, dimensional look of modern architectural shingles.

Because looks alone aren’t enough, the only way to confirm asbestos is with professional testing. If you suspect your shingles may contain asbestos, it’s best to call a pro before disturbing the roof in any way.

Asbestos Roof Shingles Life Expectancy

Originally marketed as lasting 30–50 years, many asbestos shingles have technically “outlived” their design life. Over time, they become brittle and prone to cracking. That’s when asbestos fibers can be released into the air, creating a hazard.

How to Deal With Asbestos Shingles (Removal & Replacement)

• Leave them in place if they are intact and not crumbling. Disturbing them can release fibers.

• Never DIY — removal requires licensed asbestos abatement contractors.

• Cost: Asbestos roof removal can be more expensive than standard tear-offs because of disposal regulations.

• Replacement options:

  • Asphalt shingles: Affordable, quick install.

  • Metal roofing: Durable, long lifespan, great for snow and wind in PA/NJ.

  • Synthetic slate or fiber cement: Premium looks without the asbestos risk.

FAQs About Asbestos Shingles

Do asbestos shingles need to be removed?
Not always. If intact, they can sometimes be left in place and covered with new roofing.

Can you put new shingles over asbestos shingles?
In some cases, yes — but it depends on local building codes and the condition of the roof. Always consult a professional.

How much does asbestos roof removal cost?
Costs vary by roof size and local disposal fees, but removal often runs higher than a standard replacement because of abatement requirements.

Who should I call for asbestos shingle replacement in PA/NJ/DE?
Licensed roofing contractors like Paragon Exterior can inspect your roof and recommend safe replacement options.

Bottom Line

Asbestos shingles were once a common roofing material, but today they are a liability. If your home has them, the safest approach is to call a licensed professional. Paragon Exterior offers full roof replacement services across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware — giving you peace of mind and a healthier, safer home.

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