Skip to content

Asbestos roofs

Asbestos Encapsulation & Roof Sealing

Asbestos encapsulation means coating asbestos-containing materials with a specialist encapsulant that binds the fibres and stops them becoming airborne. It is a cost-effective way to manage roofs, cladding and ceilings that are still in sound condition. WorkSafe's code of practice treats encapsulation as a temporary measure, so encapsulated materials should be re-inspected regularly – we'll tell you honestly if removal is the better long-term option.

Applying fibre-sealing paint to a corrugated asbestos cement roof
Best for
Sound, intact materials
Applies to
Roofs, cladding, ceilings
Coatings
Fibre-sealing, weather-resistant
Re-inspection
Recommended every 5 years

What is asbestos encapsulation?

Asbestos encapsulation is a method used to control and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) by coating them with a specialised encapsulant. The encapsulant forms a protective layer around the asbestos fibres, locking them into a stable matrix. The goal is to stop fibres being released into the air and reduce the risk of exposure for occupants and the environment.

JP Franklin applies specialist encapsulants that create a durable barrier around asbestos fibres, following strict safety protocols and regulatory guidelines so the coating performs and lasts.

Asbestos roof encapsulation and painting

If you want to extend the life of a sound asbestos roof, sealing and painting it can be a smart choice:

  • Seal harmful fibres – a sealing primer and fibre-sealing paint lock fibres in place.
  • Extend roof life – the coating protects against further weathering.
  • Improve appearance – a fresh finish revitalises the roof and adds street appeal.

Our process is simple: we assess and prepare the roof using asbestos-safe cleaning methods, seal and prime any exposed fibres to give a stable base, then paint and finish with high-quality, asbestos-compatible coatings designed for New Zealand’s UV and rain.

Cladding, residential and commercial encapsulation

Cladding and siding: we encapsulate asbestos cement cladding to contain potential hazards and keep it stable, reducing the need for costly immediate removal.

Residential: a cost-effective way for homeowners to manage asbestos in roofs, soffits and textured ceilings while keeping the family safe.

Commercial: we encapsulate ACMs in commercial and industrial buildings to mitigate the risk of airborne fibres while meeting your regulatory obligations and keeping the business running.

When encapsulation isn’t the answer

Encapsulation only works on material that is still sound. If your roof is brittle, cracked, leaking or heavily weathered, sealing it is money spent on a roof that will still need replacing. In that case we’ll show you the numbers for removal and a new roof instead.

What’s included

  • Condition assessment and risk assessment of the asbestos material
  • Asbestos-safe surface preparation (no water-blasting or dry sanding)
  • Specialist sealing primer to bind exposed fibres
  • Fibre-sealing, UV- and weather-resistant top coats
  • Containment, protection and neighbour notification
  • Disposal of any asbestos-contaminated preparation waste
  • Documentation for your property records and asbestos register

Project photos

  • Close-up of an encapsulated corrugated asbestos roof
    Close-up of an encapsulated corrugated asbestos roof
  • Commercial building with asbestos cement cladding
    Commercial building with asbestos cement cladding
  • Textured popcorn ceiling that may contain asbestos
    Textured popcorn ceiling that may contain asbestos
See more before & after projects →

How it works

How asbestos encapsulation & roof sealing works

Inspect → Quote → Remove → Dispose → Replace. A clear, compliant process from the first visit to your new roof.

  1. 01

    Inspect

    We visit, assess the property and take samples where needed.

  2. 02

    Identify

    Independent lab results confirm if – and what type of – asbestos is present.

  3. 03

    Plan & quote

    A clear written quote and, for licensed work, an asbestos removal control plan.

  4. 04

    Remove safely

    Isolated work area, wet methods, whole-sheet removal and full PPE.

  5. 05

    Dispose

    Double-wrapped, labelled and taken to a licensed facility – dockets supplied.

  6. 06

    Replace

    New roof, cladding or linings installed by our own team.

  7. 07

    Complete

    Final inspection, clean-up, clearance paperwork and warranty.

FAQ

Asbestos Encapsulation & Roof Sealing: common questions

Can’t see your question? Call us or send a message – we’re happy to help.

Can you paint an asbestos roof?

Yes – when it is done properly. An asbestos roof must never be water-blasted or dry-sanded. A trained team cleans it using asbestos-safe methods, applies a sealing primer and then fibre-sealing roof paint. Some roofs are too far gone to seal reliably, in which case we will recommend replacement.

Is encapsulation a permanent solution?

No. WorkSafe's Approved Code of Practice treats encapsulation as a temporary control. Encapsulated material should be inspected regularly (we recommend at least every five years) and will eventually need to be removed.

Should I remove or encapsulate asbestos?

Encapsulate when the material is intact, in reasonable condition and won't be disturbed by planned work. Remove it when it is cracked, crumbling, leaking or in the way of renovations – or when you want the asbestos gone for good.

Does encapsulation make my roof last longer?

A quality sealing system protects the surface from further weathering and can extend the life of a sound roof, but it can't fix brittle or broken sheets.

Reviews

What our customers say

See our Google reviews
  • “Highly recommend the team at JP Franklin Roofing! Thank you so much for the quick turn around on the job and the easy communication. Thanks heaps!”
    Zoe Wood Asbestos tile roof repair · Auckland
  • “Had a great experience with JP Franklin Roofing, had my old concrete tile roof replaced by a great team of roofers. Communication was excellent and everything done to a high quality of workmanship. From edge protection to total site clean up, everything was done exactly as I was told it would be. I highly recommend them to anyone in the future.”
    Haukaha Paul Concrete tile roof replacement · West Auckland
  • “Really impressed by the way JP Franklin Roofing performs jobs. They are very professional and timely. I couldn’t find any other company of that manner in their works. Excellent team and deserve an A+.”
    Tony Hopkins Metal roof replacement · Auckland

One company · One quote · One project

Get your free asbestos assessment

Tell us what you’ve found – or send a few photos – and we’ll tell you what to do next. Free site assessments and written quotes across Auckland.

Call Send photos Free quote