If your roof was constructed between 1930 and 1970, there’s a possibility that the shingles contain asbestos. If that’s the case, you should hire a professional for repairs and replacement, as they’ll have the necessary equipment to stay safe from such a hazardous and cancer-causing substance. If your home was constructed after this period, it’s unlikely that the shingles in place are toxic. In most cases, asbestos shingles are not recyclable, while standard asphalt shingles are recyclable.

You should ask a few questions to ensure that your potential lead removal professional is experienced and qualified to handle lead-paint abatement safely, legally, and properly.

• What are your qualifications and experience removing lead-based paint?

• Are you licensed and certified to remove lead-based paint?

• How do you test for lead paint?

• What methods do you use for lead-based paint abatement?

• What do you plan to do with the hazardous material when you remove it from the home?

• Do you do replacement and painting work or removal only?

The best disposal method for hazardous waste is recycling or donation, if possible. That way, the world can reduce its consumption of raw materials and the volume at which materials have to be treated and disposed of. If recycling or donation is not an option, most waste can be disposed of through landfills or incinerators, but their collection and treatment are separate from regular day-to-day waste disposal. 

If the lead paint is in a place that is not easily disturbed and is not flaking or deteriorating, you do not necessarily need to remove it. Lead is toxic when dust particles or flakes from peeling lead paint are ingested. If people are not in the area with the lead paint, it may be safe to leave it in place. You still may want to consider encapsulation with a paint formulated for covering lead-based paint, just for an added layer of protection.