What Roofing Materials are Toxic? (Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment)

If you’ve ever wondered what roofing materials are toxic, how to tell if your roof is toxic, or how to treat the symptoms of toxic roofs, then you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we’ll answer all your questions about toxics in roofing and give you some tips for staying safe.

What roofing materials are toxic?

Asbestos: Asbestos was commonly used in roofing materials before it was discovered to be carcinogenic. If your roof was installed before the 1980s, it may contain asbestos. When asbestos fibers become airborne, they can be inhaled and cause lung cancer or mesothelioma.

Lead: Lead was also a popular roofing material in the past, but it has since been banned in many countries due to its toxicity. Lead can cause damage to the nervous system and brain, particularly in children, and can be harmful to the environment.
Chromium: Some roofing materials may contain chromium, which is a heavy metal that can be toxic when inhaled. Chromium exposure can cause lung cancer, asthma, and other respiratory problems.
Tar and asphalt: Tar and asphalt are commonly used in roofing materials, but they can release fumes that are harmful when inhaled. Long-term exposure to these fumes can lead to respiratory problems.

PVC: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing materials can release dioxins and other toxic chemicals during manufacturing and installation. Dioxins are carcinogenic and can cause developmental problems.
Formaldehyde-based insulation: Some roofing materials may contain formaldehyde-based insulation, which can release harmful fumes when heated or exposed to moisture. Formaldehyde exposure can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health issues.
Copper and zinc: Copper and zinc roofing materials can leach into the soil and water over time, causing environmental contamination. These metals can be toxic to aquatic life and may also harm plants and animals that come into contact with them.

Polyurethane foam: Polyurethane foam roofing materials can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are harmful when inhaled. Long-term exposure to these VOCs can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.
Mercury: Some roofing materials may contain small amounts of mercury, which can be toxic when inhaled or ingested. Mercury exposure can cause neurological damage and other health problems.
Bitumen: Bitumen roofing materials can release fumes that are harmful when inhaled, especially during installation. Long-term exposure to these fumes can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.

What are the causes of roof toxicity?

Asbestos roofing shingles: Asbestos was commonly used in roofing materials before it was discovered to be carcinogenic. If your roof was installed before the 1980s, it may contain asbestos. When asbestos fibers become airborne, they can be inhaled and cause lung cancer or mesothelioma.
Coal-tar creosote: Coal-tar creosote is a wood preservative that can be toxic when inhaled or ingested. It is often used to treat wood shingles, but can release harmful chemicals over time.
Vinyl shingles: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing materials can release dioxins and other toxic chemicals during manufacturing and installation. Dioxins are carcinogenic and can cause developmental problems.

Lead paint: Lead was also a popular roofing material in the past, but it has since been banned in many countries due to its toxicity. Lead can cause damage to the nervous system and brain, particularly in children, and can be harmful to the environment.
Petrochemicals: Petrochemicals are a group of chemicals derived from petroleum, which can be toxic when inhaled or ingested. They are often used in roofing materials such as asphalt shingles and can release fumes over time.
Rubber roofs: Rubber roofing materials can contain toxic chemicals such as phthalates, which can be harmful when inhaled or ingested.

Chemicals used in roof sealants: Some roofing materials may require sealants that contain toxic chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or halogenated flame retardants.
Mineral fiber shingles: Mineral fiber shingles can contain silica, which can be harmful when inhaled. Silica exposure can cause lung cancer and other respiratory problems.
Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles can release fumes that are harmful when inhaled, especially during installation. Long-term exposure to these fumes can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.

Polyvinyl chloride: As mentioned earlier, PVC roofing materials can release dioxins and other toxic chemicals during manufacturing and installation.
Wood treatment: Wood shingles and other wooden roofing materials may be treated with chemicals that can be toxic when inhaled or ingested, such as copper or arsenic.
Halogenated flame retardants: Halogenated flame retardants are often used in roofing materials to prevent fires, but they can release toxic fumes when burned or exposed to heat.

Cadmium: Some roofing materials may contain cadmium, which can be toxic when inhaled or ingested. Cadmium exposure can cause kidney damage and other health problems.
Volatile organic compounds: VOCs are a group of chemicals that can be harmful when inhaled or ingested. They are often used in roofing materials such as asphalt shingles and sealants.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass is a common roofing material that can release small fibers into the air when damaged or degraded. These fibers can be inhaled and cause respiratory problems.

What are the symptoms of roof toxicity?

Headaches: Exposure to toxic roofing materials can cause headaches. These headaches can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
Difficulty breathing: Toxic roofing materials can irritate the respiratory system and cause difficulty breathing. This can range from mild discomfort to severe respiratory distress.
Nausea: Exposure to toxic roofing materials can cause nausea. This can range from mild discomfort to severe vomiting.

Vomiting: Exposure to toxic roofing materials can cause vomiting. This can range from mild discomfort to severe and persistent vomiting.
Skin rashes: Exposure to toxic roofing materials can cause skin rashes. These rashes can be mild or severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
Fatigue: Exposure to toxic roofing materials can cause fatigue. This can range from mild to severe and may interfere with daily activities.

Dizziness: Exposure to toxic roofing materials can cause dizziness. This can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
Memory loss: Exposure to toxic roofing materials can cause memory loss. This can range from mild forgetfulness to severe memory impairment.
Decreased concentration: Exposure to toxic roofing materials can cause decreased concentration. This can make it difficult to focus on tasks and may interfere with daily activities.

Allergic reactions: Exposure to certain roofing materials can cause allergic reactions. These reactions can range from mild to severe and may be life-threatening in some cases. Symptoms may include itching, hives, and difficulty breathing.

What are the long-term effects of exposure to toxic roofing materials?

Exposure to toxic roofing materials can have long-term effects on human health. These effects can be different for each person, depending on their age, general health, and genetic susceptibility, as well as the type and amount of exposure. Some of the long-term effects of exposure to toxic roofing materials may include:

Cancer: Exposure to certain roofing materials, such as asbestos and coal-tar creosote, has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Respiratory problems: Exposure to toxic roofing materials can cause chronic respiratory problems, such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.
Neurological problems: Some toxic roofing materials, such as lead and cadmium, can cause neurological problems, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and developmental delays in children.
Reproductive problems: Exposure to certain roofing materials, such as phthalates, can cause reproductive problems, including infertility and developmental problems in infants.

Immune system problems: Exposure to some roofing materials can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and other health problems.
Skin problems: Exposure to certain roofing materials, such as fiberglass and petrochemicals, can cause skin irritation, rashes, and other skin problems.

What is the most common type of toxic roofing material?

Asbestos is one of the most common types of toxic roofing materials. From the 1910s until the 1980s, it was used a lot in building and roofing materials because it was strong, didn’t get hot, and didn’t catch fire.

Later, though, it was found that breathing in asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Even though asbestos has mostly been phased out of roofing materials, many older homes and buildings still have asbestos roofing materials, which can pose a serious health risk if the fibers get into the air and are breathed in.

When handling or getting rid of asbestos roofing materials, it’s important to be careful and get help from a professional to make sure the job is done safely.

What are the health hazards of asbestos shingles?

Asbestos shingles can be very dangerous to your health because they contain asbestos fibers, which can get into the air when the shingles are damaged or moved. When these fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs and cause a range of serious health problems. Some of the health hazards associated with asbestos shingles include:

Mesothelioma: Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. The risk of developing mesothelioma is directly related to the amount and duration of asbestos exposure.
Lung cancer: Asbestos exposure is also a significant risk factor for lung cancer, particularly in smokers. The risk of developing lung cancer is also related to the amount and duration of asbestos exposure.

Asbestosis: Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease that can develop after long-term exposure to asbestos. It causes scarring of the lung tissue, which can make it difficult to breathe.
Pleural plaques: Pleural plaques are areas of scarring on the lining of the lungs that can develop after asbestos exposure. While they are not usually harmful, they can be an indicator of past asbestos exposure.
Other cancers: Asbestos exposure has also been linked to an increased risk of other types of cancer, including cancers of the larynx, esophagus, stomach, colon, and rectum.

Which shingles are most toxic?

There are several types of shingles that can contain toxic materials, and the level of toxicity can vary depending on the specific materials used. Some of the shingles that are commonly considered to be the most toxic include:

Asbestos shingles: Asbestos was commonly used in shingles due to its fire-resistant properties. However, asbestos fibers can become airborne when disturbed, and inhalation of these fibers can lead to serious health problems such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Coal-tar creosote shingles: Coal-tar creosote is a wood preservative that was commonly used in shingles. However, it contains several toxic compounds, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been linked to cancer.

Vinyl shingles: Vinyl shingles can contain phthalates, which are a group of chemicals that can disrupt hormone levels and have been linked to reproductive problems and developmental issues in infants.
Mineral fiber shingles: Mineral fiber shingles can contain silica, which is a mineral that can cause lung damage and cancer when inhaled.

How can toxic roofing materials be identified?

Identifying toxic roofing materials can be difficult, as many of these materials may look similar to non-toxic materials. However, there are some steps that can be taken to help identify potentially toxic roofing materials:

Conduct a visual inspection: A visual inspection of the roofing materials can help identify any obvious signs of damage or deterioration, which may indicate the presence of toxic materials. For example, if the roofing material appears to be breaking down or releasing particles, this could be a sign of asbestos or other toxic materials.
Check the age of the building: If the building was constructed before the 1980s, there is a higher likelihood that it may contain asbestos or other toxic materials. Asbestos was commonly used in construction and roofing materials until it was phased out in the 1980s.
Have a sample tested: If there is a suspicion that the roofing material may contain toxic materials, a sample can be collected and sent to a laboratory for testing. This can help identify the presence of specific toxins, such as asbestos or lead.

Consult with a professional: If in doubt, it is always best to consult with a professional who has experience with identifying and handling toxic materials. They can provide guidance on how to safely find and handle these materials and help with getting rid of any toxic roofing materials in the right way.

What are the treatment options for roof toxicity?

Consult with a doctor

If you suspect you’ve been exposed to toxic roofing materials, the first step is to consult with a doctor. They can help you figure out how bad the exposure is and suggest the best way to treat it.

Eliminate the source of exposure

Toxicity from roofing materials can be prevented by eliminating the source of exposure. This could mean replacing the roof or taking other steps to keep the toxic materials from getting into the air again.

Use preventive measures

Using preventive measures can help reduce the risk of exposure to toxic roofing materials. This may include wearing protective gear, such as masks or gloves, when handling the materials or working on the roof.

Supportive care

Supportive care can help alleviate symptoms of toxicity from roofing materials. This could include getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and taking other steps to help the body heal itself.

Medication and treatment

There may occasionally be a need for medication to treat the symptoms of roofing material poisoning. This might entail using prescription medications like nausea relievers or painkillers or other treatments that a doctor has recommended.

Psychological therapy

Exposure to toxic roofing materials can be a traumatic experience. Psychological therapy can help people deal with the emotional and mental effects of exposure and learn how to deal with stress and anxiety.

Improve indoor air quality

Getting rid of toxic roofing materials is less likely if the air inside is better. This could mean using air filters or ventilation systems to get fresh air into every room of the house or building.

Consider alternative roofing materials

The use of non-toxic roofing materials can eliminate the need for toxic roofing materials. This may include using natural materials, such as wood or clay, or other types of roofing materials that are less toxic than traditional options.

Limit exposure

Limiting exposure to toxic roofing materials is key to preventing toxicity. This could mean staying away from places to work or live that are known to have toxic roofing materials or taking other steps to limit exposure.

What is the safest way to remove toxic roofing materials?

To keep from getting sick, it’s important to be very careful when removing toxic roofing materials. The safest way to remove toxic roofing materials is as follows:

Hire a professional: It is always best to hire a professional contractor who is licensed and trained to handle the specific type of toxic roofing material being removed. They will have the proper equipment and expertise to safely remove the roofing material without exposing themselves or others to harmful substances.

Use proper protective gear: The workers should use personal protective equipment such as respirators, gloves, and coveralls to avoid inhaling or coming into contact with the toxic materials.
Wet the roofing materials: Before starting the removal process, the workers should wet the roofing materials to minimize the release of toxic particles into the air. Use safety equipment to prevent slipping and falling.
Use controlled demolition: Controlled demolition involves carefully removing the toxic roofing materials in small sections, which minimizes the release of toxic particles into the air.

Dispose of the materials properly: The toxic roofing materials should be placed in a sealed, leak-proof container labeled as hazardous waste, and then transported to a licensed hazardous waste disposal facility for proper disposal.

How can contaminated roofing materials be safely disposed of?

Roofing materials that are dirty should be thrown away as hazardous waste to keep people and the environment safe. The disposal of contaminated roofing materials is as follows:

Hire a licensed contractor: It is best to hire a licensed contractor who specializes in getting rid of and disposing of hazardous waste. They will have the expertise and know-how to deal with the contaminated roofing materials the right way and make sure they are thrown away according to local rules.

Label and seal the materials: The contaminated roofing materials should be placed in a leak-proof container that is properly labeled as hazardous waste.
Transport the materials: The materials should be transported to a licensed hazardous waste facility in a vehicle that is specifically designed to transport hazardous waste.
Proper disposal: The hazardous waste facility will properly dispose of the materials in a way that minimizes harm to human health and the environment.

What should be done to avoid inhaling toxic fumes from roofing materials?

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): When working with or around toxic roofing materials, it is important to wear appropriate PPE such as a respirator, gloves, and protective clothing to reduce the risk of inhalation.
Work in a well-ventilated area: Adequate ventilation can help to minimize the concentration of toxic fumes in the air. If possible, work outdoors or in an area with good ventilation to reduce the risk of inhalation.
Use proper handling techniques: Use proper handling techniques when working with toxic roofing materials. For example, avoid cutting, sawing, or sanding the material as this can release toxic dust and fumes into the air.

Wet the roofing material: Wetting the material before handling or removing it can help to minimize the release of toxic dust and fumes into the air.
Follow safety procedures: Always follow safety procedures and guidelines when working with toxic roofing materials. This includes using appropriate PPE, following handling procedures, and properly disposing of waste materials.

Are these toxic roofing materials bad for the environment?

Yes, toxic roofing materials can have negative impacts on the environment. For example:

Chemical pollution: Many toxic roofing materials contain chemicals that can pollute the air, soil, and water. When these materials are manufactured, installed, or removed, they can release harmful chemicals into the environment, contributing to air and water pollution and soil contamination.
Landfill waste: Many toxic roofing materials cannot be recycled or reused and must be disposed of in landfills. This can lead to increased landfill waste and potential contamination of the surrounding environment.
Energy consumption: The manufacturing and transportation of toxic roofing materials can consume significant amounts of energy, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.

Wildlife and habitat disruption: The installation and removal of roofing materials can disrupt local wildlife and their habitats. In addition, the chemicals and pollutants released by these materials can harm wildlife and their ecosystems.

Is it hazardous to burn shingles?

Yes, burning shingles can be hazardous to human health and the environment. Many roofing materials, like asphalt shingles, have chemicals in them that, when burned, can produce toxic fumes.

Inhaling these fumes can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and other health issues. Also, burning shingles can contribute to air pollution and release chemicals that are bad for the environment.

Also, it may be illegal to burn roofing materials in some areas due to local regulations and environmental concerns.

So, it’s important to get rid of roofing materials the right way, according to local rules and regulations, so they don’t hurt people or the environment.

What are the effects of toxic shingles on pets?

Exposure to toxic shingles can have negative health effects on pets, just as it can on humans. The hazardous chemicals and pollutants that toxic shingles emit can be harmful to dogs and cats in particular.

Toxic shingles can have different effects on pets depending on the chemicals they contain and how long and how much they are exposed to them. Some potential effects include:

Respiratory problems: Inhaling fumes from toxic shingles can cause respiratory issues in pets, including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
Skin irritation: Direct contact with toxic shingles can cause skin irritation, rash, and itching in pets.

Digestive problems: Ingesting or licking toxic shingles can cause digestive problems, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Neurological problems: Exposure to certain chemicals found in toxic shingles can affect the nervous system of pets, leading to symptoms such as seizures, tremors, and loss of coordination.

Other interesting articles:

What is Roofing Lead? (Why We Use it and Potential Health Concerns)

Big Home Projects