Should You Paint Over Asbestos-Containing Wallpaper?

1 May 2023

A couple recently bought a home in Ireland and were planning to carry out renovation works. During the building survey, the presence of asbestos wallpaper was detected, and the builder involved recommended to simply paint over it, rather than treat it - but were they right?

The question would be, is it safe to leave it in place, rather than go through the asbestos removal and disposal route? Of course, painting over it may suit your budget better, but what about health - does this method leave people unprotected?

Many Older Properties Contain ACMs 

Due to its widespread use in construction up until the end of the 20th century, asbestos can be found in many properties built before its complete banning in 1999. This naturally-occurring material contains inviside fibres that can be extremely dangerous when inhaled. 

They typically include:

• Blue asbestos (Crocidolite)

• Brown asbestos (Amosite)

• White asbestos (Chrysotile)

You could simply paint over the wallpaper, as it’s only releases the airborne fibres that cause mesothelioma when disturbed. However, by doing so, you’re simply concealing a deadly material that future tradesperson may unknowingly disturb duing future works. 

Instead, an asbestos survey should have been carried out to determine the presence of the material in your home, as it may also be used elsewhere in the roof coverings, flooring and wall linings. That way, you’ll be fully aware of the full extent of the problem. 

Trust the Experts When Dealing With Asbestos

When dealing with asbestos, your first port of call should always be to defer to the experts, as one mistake can lead to anyone developing life-threatening lung cancer later in life. As such, if you suspect or know that asbestos is present, we encourage to reach out, as it’s the only way to ensure that everyone remains safe.

If you’d like to know more about the subject or discover our full range of asbestos and occupational hygiene services, visit us today at www.ohss.ie. Alternatively, to speak to us about anything else, call 01 6905907 and we’ll do everything we can to assist you

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