How to paint over asbestos in garage?

Hi Team,

We have an old asbestos garage which we have discovered is in worse condition than we expected. We are looking for an intermediate solution to reduce risk of dust etc. have been told to paint over with rollers & good quality paint. Looking for any recommendations for paint?

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Nailbag

Hi @lisajane1

I’m no expert on this topic, but I would look at first sealing the walls with an asbestos specific primer like this one. Then apply a conventional paint primer prior to your colour coats.

Obviously following all recommended precautions with PPE during the initial seal coat.

Nailbag

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @lisajane1. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about coating asbestos.

It's great to see that @Nailbag has already provided some helpful advice. I'd only suggest to keep within the Crommelin system and use their Crommelin 15L Asbestos Fibroseal Topcoat over the sealer. I'd also suggest you reach out to the Crommelins' technical team to discuss your project with them.

I do want to add a serious safety note here. Working around asbestos always carries risk, particularly when the material is already in poor condition. If you do proceed yourself, it’s essential to wear appropriate PPE, including a P2 respirator, disposable coveralls, gloves, and eye protection, and to avoid any actions that could generate dust, such as sanding, scraping, or using power tools. Wet methods and gentle application with rollers are generally recommended to minimise fibre release.

Given the condition you’ve described, it would also be well worth considering engaging a licensed asbestos professional. They can assess the material properly and either encapsulate it safely or advise if removal is the safer option. While painting can be an effective short to medium-term risk reduction measure, professional advice and workmanship can provide much greater peace of mind when it comes to asbestos.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

AlanM52

Hi @lisajane1,

With regard to asbestos this would be my DIY approach.

If you are standing outside looking at the job.

That's OK.

If you are standing inside looking at the job - Walk Away.

Is it possible to paint using only a roller?

I say no... would have to also use paint brush and there are to many sections (some angled) too fiddly and spend to much time in there.

For the intermediate solution what about getting someone in to cover and tape everything with plastic like painting drop sheets.

Use only for floor storage so most of the time there is no need to go in there.

Cheers

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