Removing asbestos rope - fireplace.

[moustachebandit]

Intending on removing an old fireplace from the house - some hideous 1960's kit build. Having a close look at the fireplace, it appears the may have used asbestos rope to insulate the surround from the hearth - its sandwiched between the two panels.

Now I am going to try and take the whole thing out in 1 piece to save disturbing anything but was thinking that it would be worth finding a way to trap the asbestos rope so it can release any fibres as the fireplace gets removed.

Idea 1 is to repeatedly soak the asbestos rope in water mixed with PVA to lock any fibres in, then cover the area in neat PVA to full seal it off.

Idea 2 gets some duck tape and tape over the rope so it cant go anywhere or release fibres?

If anyone has any suggestions on a better approach that would be appreciated.

Thanks

James

[moustachebandit]

Thanks for the concerns! I have actively avoided messing with Asbestos over the years and I am very cautious about doing anything that may even involve asbestos.

Logically though the asbestos rope is a very small amount which can hopefully be easily sealed prior to removal. If the whole fireplace comes out in 1 piece then my only concern will be it shedding fibres as I am digging the fireplace out of the wall.

Coated in PVA and then taped up the chance of any fibre release is going to be tiny?

Cheers

[moustachebandit]

Thanks for the replies - I will soak the exposed rope down with water and PVA to lock the fibres in.

If I can get the whole fireplace surround and hearth out in 1 piece then I wont even have to disturb the asbestos rope and it can remain sandwiched between the 2 parts.


Whilst we are on the subject of asbestos and fireplaces - does anyone know if asbestos cement has been used in the past to line the flue of a fire? Seems unlikley from the reearch I have done but people may know different?

Thanks