Quick Overview
Asbestos cement siding was widely used on Canadian homes from the 1920s through the 1970s. It's durable and fire-resistant, but contains asbestos fibers that become dangerous when the material is broken, drilled, sawed, or deteriorating.
Common in homes:1920s-1970s
Health risk:High (when disturbed)
Regulated disposal:Yes
How to Identify
- • Shingle-style siding with a cement-like texture
- • Often resembles slate or wood shingles
- • Very hard and brittle — snaps rather than bends
- • Typically gray, white, or pastel-colored
- • Professional lab testing confirms presence — ask for a written quote
Major Risks
- • Asbestos fiber release when broken or disturbed
- • Mesothelioma and lung disease from inhalation
- • Strict provincial disposal regulations
- • Cannot be cut, drilled, or sanded safely without abatement
- • Renovation complications and added costs
Budgeting for Testing and Work
Lab testing:Ask for a written quote
Encapsulation:Get itemized contractor quotes
Professional removal:Costs vary by scope and region
New siding after removal:Get itemized contractor quotes
Costs vary by scope, region and contractor — collect written quotes from licensed contractors before deciding.
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Professional Recommendations
Immediate Actions:
- • Do NOT break, drill, or sand suspected asbestos siding
- • Get professional testing before any exterior work
- • Inspect for cracked or deteriorating shingles
- • Keep children away from damaged areas
Long-term Solutions:
- • Encapsulate with new siding over top (if intact)
- • Hire certified abatement contractor for removal
- • Follow provincial disposal regulations
- • Replace with modern fiber cement or vinyl siding
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Old Canadian Houses
Common questions from buyers and owners of older Canadian homes, answered with era context and pointers to the professionals who can confirm anything on a specific property.
Have a question not answered here? Browse our full inspection guide or explore all resources.