Understanding Roof Damage During Cold Weather
Fall and early winter in New Mexico bring sharp temperature drops, freezing nights, and strong winds—especially in Taos, Santa Fe, and Albuquerque. These conditions often expose or worsen existing roof problems. Shingles crack, flashing pulls away, and roofing felt can loosen.
For homes and buildings built before the 1980s, these repairs can pose an unseen risk: asbestos exposure. Many older roofing materials were manufactured with asbestos for durability and heat resistance. But once damaged or disturbed, those same materials can release microscopic fibers into the air, creating serious health hazards.
Where Asbestos May Be Hiding in Roofing Materials
Asbestos was commonly used in roofing for decades because it could withstand heat, fire, and weather. Even today, remnants of these products remain in older New Mexico structures. If your home or commercial property predates 1985, it’s wise to assume asbestos may be present in one or more of the following:
- Roofing shingles — especially asbestos-cement shingles or slate-style materials
- Roofing felt or paper — used under shingles or tar for waterproofing
- Roof coatings and mastics — old tar or pitch sealants often included asbestos
- Flashing and sealants — around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- Transite panels — a cement-asbestos product sometimes used on commercial flat roofs
These materials are generally safe if left intact. However, cracking, sanding, or removing them releases asbestos fibers, which can become airborne and inhaled.
How Cold Weather Increases the Risk
Winter weather is tough on roofs. As materials expand and contract in cold temperatures, they can crack and separate, exposing old asbestos layers beneath.
Wind damage in areas like Rio Rancho or Taos can dislodge old shingles, while hail or ice buildup in Santa Fe’s foothills may fracture roofing tiles or flashing. The simple act of scraping off damaged material for repair can release asbestos if the materials aren’t tested first.
Even professional roofers may not realize asbestos is present until the repair is underway. That’s why asbestos testing before roof work is a crucial step for safety and compliance.
When Professional Abatement Is Necessary
It’s not always clear whether a damaged roof needs asbestos abatement or simple repair. The safest rule: test before you touch.
Here’s how to determine the right course of action:
- Minor repairs:
- If you’re replacing a small section of newer roofing (post-1990) and no older materials are exposed, regular roofing repair is usually fine.
- Suspected asbestos materials:
- If roofing felt, cement shingles, or transite panels are visible—or if the home is older—stop work immediately and schedule asbestos testing.
- Confirmed asbestos:
- Only licensed abatement professionals can legally remove or encapsulate asbestos roofing materials. Attempting to remove it yourself not only endangers your health but can also lead to environmental fines under EPA and NMED regulations.
Professional abatement teams use containment, HEPA filtration, and proper disposal methods to ensure no fibers spread during removal.
Health Dangers of Asbestos Exposure
Once asbestos fibers are airborne, they can stay suspended for hours. Inhalation may lead to severe health conditions, including:
- Asbestosis – scarring of lung tissue from prolonged exposure
- Lung cancer – often years after exposure
- Mesothelioma – a rare and aggressive cancer linked exclusively to asbestos
Even short-term exposure can be risky if fibers are heavily concentrated. Homeowners should never sweep or vacuum debris from an old roof without confirmation that it’s asbestos-free.
Cold Weather Safety Tips for New Mexico Homeowners
Before you schedule roof maintenance this winter, take these steps to protect your family and property:
- Check your home’s age.
- If it was built before 1985, assume some materials could contain asbestos.
- Inspect after windstorms.
- Look for cracked shingles or exposed tar paper—don’t handle debris yourself.
- Schedule asbestos testing.
- Certified professionals like Asbestos Experts can safely take samples and analyze them in a lab.
- Avoid DIY removal.
- Even minor scraping or sanding can release fibers.
- Plan roof replacements early.
- Abatement takes time to schedule—getting it done before snow or freezing temps arrive helps prevent leaks and exposure.
Local Expertise You Can Trust
At Asbestos Experts, we’ve helped New Mexico homeowners and businesses safely identify and remove asbestos for years. Our certified inspectors and licensed abatement team follow all EPA, OSHA, and NMED guidelines to protect your property and health.
Whether you’re in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos or across New Mexico, we provide:
- Residential and commercial asbestos testing
- Roofing and insulation inspections
- Safe asbestos removal and disposal
- Clearance testing for peace of mind
Stay Safe This Winter
If your roof has suffered from cold-weather damage or you’re planning pre-winter maintenance, make asbestos testing your first step. Protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.
Contact Asbestos Experts today for asbestos testing and roof asbestos abatement in New Mexico.
Call 505-578-2031 to schedule your inspection before the next cold front hits.