Asbestos Roof Overcladding for Industrial & Commercial Buildings

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Asbestos roof overcladding (also known as asbestos over roofing or asbestos roof encapsulation) provides a cost-effective, compliant alternative to full asbestos roof removal. By installing a new roofing system over an existing asbestos cement roof, building owners can improve weather resistance, thermal performance, and the lifespan of their building without disturbing the existing asbestos material.

Asbestos roof overcladding is commonly used on industrial and commercial buildings where the existing asbestos cement roof remains structurally sound but no longer meets modern performance, insulation, or weatherproofing standards. It enables businesses to upgrade their roofing system while avoiding the disruption and expense associated with full asbestos roof replacement.

We design and install asbestos roof overcladding systems for warehouses, factories, logistics centres, and large commercial buildings. Every project is carefully planned to prioritise safety, regulatory compliance, and minimal disruption to day-to-day operations.

What Is an Asbestos Over Roof?

An asbestos over roof involves installing a new independent roofing system directly over an existing asbestos cement roof. The original asbestos sheets remain in place, sealed and undisturbed, while the new roof provides a modern, weatherproof outer layer.

This approach:

  • Avoids asbestos removal

  • Reduces health and safety risks

  • Improves insulation and weather resistance

  • Extends the usable lifespan of the building

Asbestos over roofing is a form of encapsulation, provided the existing roof is in suitable condition.

When Is an Asbestos Over Roof Suitable?

An asbestos over roof solution may be appropriate when:

  • The asbestos cement roof is structurally sound

  • There is no significant cracking, delamination, or widespread deterioration

  • The building requires improved thermal or weather performance

  • Operational continuity is essential

  • Budget or programme constraints rule out full removal

  • Long-term asbestos management is acceptable within the building strategy

Before any recommendation is made, a detailed structural assessment and asbestos review is carried out to confirm suitability.

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When an Asbestos Over Roof Is Not Appropriate

Over-roofing may not be suitable where:

  • The asbestos roof is severely damaged or unstable

  • Structural loading limits would be exceeded

  • The building is scheduled for redevelopment

  • Asbestos management obligations cannot be met long term

In these cases, asbestos roof removal or replacement may be the more appropriate solution. We provide clear, honest guidance based on condition, risk, and future plans.

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Types of Asbestos Roof Overcladding Systems

Metal Over Roof Systems

Lightweight profiled metal or composite roofing sheets are installed over the existing asbestos cement roof using a purpose-designed spacer framework. This creates a new weatherproof outer layer while leaving the asbestos material safely sealed and undisturbed beneath.

Metal over roof systems offer a practical solution where the existing asbestos roof remains structurally sound, providing:

  • Improved weather resistance

  • Extended roof lifespan

  • Reduced disruption compared to full roof replacement

  • A cost-effective refurbishment solution

Insulated Over Roof Systems

Additional insulation can be incorporated to significantly improve thermal efficiency and reduce energy costs, making these systems ideal for heated industrial environments.

System selection is based on:

  • Structural capacity

  • Building use

  • Drainage and detailing requirements

  • Performance objectives

Industries We Work With

We deliver asbestos roof overcladding solutions across a wide range of industrial and commercial sectors, tailoring each system to the building’s operational requirements and long-term performance objectives.

We deliver industrial roofing services across a wide range of sectors, including:

Warehousing and logistics

Manufacturing and production

Food processing and cold storage

Energy and utilities

Agriculture and infrastructure

Why Choose Us for Asbestos Over Roof Systems?

Here at Leafield Projects, we bring many years of experience to your industrial roofing project. We also cover the length and breadth of the UK.

  • Proven experience with industrial asbestos over-roof installations

  • Safety-led structural and condition assessments

  • High-quality roofing systems and materials

  • Careful planning to minimise disruption to live sites

  • Long-term performance-focused solutions

CDM Roles & Principal Contractor Services

We can operate under a range of CDM roles to suit project requirements, including acting as Principal Contractor. Our team manages planning, coordination, and site safety in line with CDM Regulations, ensuring all works are delivered compliantly with full documentation including construction phase plans and specific risk assessments for the works being carried out.

Accreditations

We maintain recognised industry accreditations, including:

  • SafeContractor

  • CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme)

These accreditations demonstrate our commitment to health & safety, quality, and professional standards across all projects.

Coverage Area – Nationwide Service

We provide industrial roofing services across the full UK, supporting clients with consistent standards regardless of location. Our teams are experienced in working on sites nationwide, including large multi-site portfolios and framework agreements.

Industrial Roofing FAQs

Can an asbestos roof be overclad?

Yes, provided the existing asbestos cement roof is structurally sound and in suitable condition. An asbestos roof overcladding system installs a new roof above the existing asbestos roof without disturbing the asbestos material. A structural assessment and roof survey should always be carried out before overcladding is recommended.

Can you work on live industrial sites?

In many cases, yes. Asbestos roof overcladding can be a more cost-effective solution than full asbestos roof removal and replacement because it avoids the expense and disruption associated with removing and disposing of asbestos-containing materials. However, the most suitable option will depend on the condition of the existing roof and the long-term objectives for the building.

How long does an asbestos roof overcladding system last?

A professionally designed and installed asbestos roof overcladding system can provide decades of additional service life. The exact lifespan depends on the roofing system selected, environmental conditions, and ongoing maintenance, but modern overcladding systems are designed to improve weather resistance, thermal performance, and the long-term durability of industrial and commercial buildings.

Related Industrial Roofing Services

We provide a full range of industrial roofing services, tailored to building use, environment, and operational requirements:

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  • "Leafield Projects carry out both major and minor works on various Kerry Logistics sites. The overroof of our Broadoak site was an example of the innovate approach they take towards projects. Their professional manner and high quality service leads us to retaining their service.”

    Mark Hunt - Warehouse / Maintenance Manager

  • "Leafield Projects have carried out various roofing works to Dulux Decorator Centres for some years now and have carried out work to a high standard, with a priority placed on health and safety, which as a company we class as a major issue with all work carried out at the stores."

    Mike Dwyer - DDC Maintenance Manager

  • "Leafield Projects undertake a wide range of roofing work at various Saint Gobain Distribution sites including Jewson and Graham branches and have met or exceeded our expectations. For minor repairs to major projects Leafield Projects come highly recommended."

    Keith Wadsworth - Property Maintenance Manager

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Get Advice on Asbestos Roof Overcladding

If your building has an asbestos cement roof and you are considering refurbishment or performance upgrades, we can help assess whether an asbestos over

roof system is the right solution.

Contact us to arrange expert advice, a site assessment, and clear guidance on the safest and most effective way forward.

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