Reno's Roofs: Cheap Shingles Hiding Deadly Lung Harm?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 1, 2026

Imagine discovering a hidden danger lurking right above your head, silently impacting your family’s health. For many homeowners in Reno, Nevada, especially those residing in older neighborhoods like Old Southwest or near the University of Nevada, this isn’t a hypothetical scenario. It’s the very real possibility of asbestos-containing roofing shingles installed before 1981. These seemingly innocuous shingles, often chosen for their affordability and durability at the time, can release harmful asbestos fibers into the air when disturbed, posing a significant risk of lung disease. Let’s dive into how to identify, test, and safely remove these hazardous materials, protecting your home and your health.

Asbestos, once hailed as a miracle material, was widely used in construction due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. Cheap roofing shingles were a prime application, making their way onto countless homes across the U.S., including many in Reno. The problem? Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can cause serious and often fatal diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Identifying potentially asbestos-laden shingles requires a keen eye and some historical context. Focus on homes built before 1981. Look for shingles that are:

Small, typically 12x24 inches.
Flat and relatively thin.
Often have a dull, gray, or weathered appearance.
May exhibit a slightly brittle texture.

Specific brands common in Reno during that era include:

GAF: Known for their asbestos-cement shingles.
Johns Manville: Another major manufacturer of asbestos roofing products.
Supradur: A brand often found in older homes.

These brands aren’t a guarantee of asbestos presence, but they should raise a red flag. Don’t rely solely on visual identification.

The only way to definitively determine if your shingles contain asbestos is through laboratory testing. This is not a DIY project. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials releases fibers into the air, creating a health hazard.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to safe testing:

Contact a Certified Asbestos Inspector: Search online for “asbestos testing Reno NV” to find qualified professionals. The Nevada Division of Industrial Relations maintains a list of certified asbestos consultants.
Schedule an Inspection: The inspector will visually assess your roof and collect samples.
Sample Collection: The inspector will carefully remove small pieces of the shingle, taking precautions to minimize fiber release. This usually involves wetting the area and using specialized tools.
Laboratory Analysis: The samples are sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis. They will use microscopy techniques to identify asbestos fibers.
Receive the Report: You’ll receive a detailed report outlining the asbestos content of the shingles.

Common mistakes during this process include:

Attempting to collect samples yourself.
Hiring an uncertified inspector.
Failing to properly seal and dispose of sample materials (if you somehow attempt DIY).

If the test results confirm the presence of asbestos, removal is often the best course of action, especially if the shingles are damaged or deteriorating. However, encapsulation (sealing the shingles with a protective coating) may be an option in some cases, but it’s crucial to consult with a qualified asbestos professional to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Asbestos removal is a highly regulated process in Nevada. You must hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. Attempting to remove asbestos yourself is illegal and extremely dangerous.

Here’s how to navigate Nevada’s asbestos abatement regulations:

Find a Licensed Contractor: The Nevada State Contractors Board can verify licenses. Ensure the contractor is specifically licensed for asbestos abatement.
Obtain Necessary Permits: Depending on the scope of the project, you may need permits from the City of Reno or Washoe County. Your contractor should be able to assist with this process.
Proper Removal Procedures: The contractor will follow strict procedures to minimize fiber release, including:
- Sealing off the work area with plastic sheeting.
- Using negative air pressure to prevent fibers from escaping.
- Wearing protective gear, including respirators and Tyvek suits.
- Wetting the shingles to suppress dust.
- Properly disposing of asbestos waste at a designated landfill.
Air Monitoring: After the removal is complete, air monitoring is conducted to ensure that asbestos fiber levels are within acceptable limits.
Final Inspection: A final inspection is performed to verify that the removal was done correctly.

Pitfalls to avoid during asbestos removal:

Hiring an unlicensed contractor to save money. This is a false economy, as it can lead to improper removal and health risks.
Failing to obtain necessary permits.
Not verifying that the contractor is following proper removal procedures.
Ignoring air monitoring results.

Real-world application: Imagine you own a charming bungalow in the Wells Avenue neighborhood of Reno, built in 1940. The roof is covered in old, gray shingles that you suspect might contain asbestos. You follow the steps outlined above: hire a certified inspector, get the shingles tested, and the results come back positive. You then hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor to safely remove the shingles, ensuring the health and safety of your family and the community.

Another scenario: You’re considering buying a house in Sparks, Nevada, built in 1975. During the inspection, you notice the roof has older-looking shingles. You make the sale contingent on an asbestos test. If asbestos is found, you can negotiate with the seller to cover the cost of removal or walk away from the deal.

Protecting your lung health is paramount. Asbestos exposure can have devastating consequences. By taking proactive steps to identify, test, and safely remove asbestos-containing roofing shingles, you can safeguard your home and your family’s well-being. Don’t gamble with your health; take action today.