6 min read · Cost
Pre-1980 California homes sometimes have asbestos-cement siding — different from modern non-asbestos fiber cement (Hardie). Replacement has specific legal, safety, and cost considerations. Here's the framework.
Why some pre-1980 California homes have asbestos siding
Asbestos-cement siding was commonly installed 1940s-1970s — durable, fire-resistant, and affordable at the time. Banned for new use in 1989; existing installations remain on some California homes. Recognizable by distinctive shingle pattern, manufacturer markings, or installation era.
Identifying asbestos siding
Visual flags: cement-board shingle pattern with distinctive corrugation, '1940s-1970s' era construction, original cladding on pre-1980 home. Definitive identification requires testing — sample collected by licensed asbestos consultant and analyzed in lab. Don't assume; test.
Legal requirements for asbestos removal
California requires licensed asbestos abatement contractors for removal of friable (loose) asbestos. For asbestos siding (non-friable), the requirements vary but generally include: notification to local air district, contained removal procedures, sealed disposal, and disposal at licensed facility. DIY asbestos removal isn't legal and exposes household to health hazards.
Process for asbestos siding replacement
Step 1: testing to confirm asbestos content. Step 2: abatement plan with licensed asbestos contractor. Step 3: notification to local air district (typically Sacramento Metro AQMD or applicable district). Step 4: containment setup and removal by abatement crew. Step 5: substrate inspection (sometimes asbestos siding installed over wood that's intact, sometimes over substrate that needs work). Step 6: standard re-side with non-asbestos material (typically Hardie).
Cost framework
Asbestos testing: $500-$1,500 typical. Abatement (removal of asbestos siding from typical home): $5,000-$20,000 depending on home size and complexity. Disposal at licensed facility: included in abatement cost. Standard re-side after abatement: $25,000-$70,000+ typical, same as other re-side projects. Total: typical asbestos siding home goes from $30,000-$90,000+ for combined abatement and re-side.
Insurance and asbestos work
California homeowners insurance typically excludes asbestos abatement (excluded as pollution or pre-existing condition). Cost is typically homeowner's responsibility. Some sale-related abatement can be negotiated into transaction; otherwise it's project cost.
Why DIY asbestos removal is a bad idea
Beyond legal issues: removal exposes household to airborne asbestos fibers if not properly contained. Health risks (mesothelioma, lung cancer) are real with significant exposure. Disposal at unlicensed facility creates liability. The cost savings of DIY don't justify the risks; hire licensed abatement professionals.
Where Sierra Siding fits in asbestos projects
We don't do asbestos abatement (not licensed for it). We coordinate with licensed abatement contractors on combined projects — abatement happens first, then we re-side. We work with homeowners on overall project scope and timeline.
Asbestos siding replacement scope and cost
| Step | Cost |
|---|---|
| Asbestos testing | $500-$1,500 |
| Abatement (typical home) | $5,000-$20,000 |
| Standard re-side after abatement | $25,000-$70,000+ |
| Total project (typical home) | $30,000-$90,000+ |
Key takeaways
- Pre-1980 California homes sometimes have asbestos siding
- Testing required for definitive identification
- Licensed abatement required for removal
- Insurance typically excludes asbestos abatement cost
FAQ
Quick Answers
If undamaged and not being disturbed, yes — intact asbestos siding can remain. Replacement requires abatement.
No — we coordinate with licensed asbestos abatement contractors.
Test if you're uncertain; licensed asbestos consultant can sample and analyze.
Sources
Authoritative references
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB) — verify a California contractor
- James Hardie — official product & installation resources
External links to government, code, and manufacturer sources. Sierra Siding is not affiliated with these organizations; references are provided for verification.