Why Summer Can Be One of the Highest-Risk Seasons for Asbestos Exposure

Most people associate asbestos with old buildings and construction sites, but few realise that summer can actually increase the likelihood of accidental asbestos exposure. As schools close, families take on home improvement projects, and public spaces become busier, asbestos-containing materials are more likely to be disturbed.

While asbestos remains dangerous all year round, the summer months create unique circumstances that can increase risk.

Home Improvement Season Is Here

Summer is traditionally the busiest time of year for DIY projects and home renovations.

Across the UK, homeowners take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather to:

• Renovate kitchens and bathrooms
• Convert garages
• Replace roofs
• Build extensions
• Upgrade heating systems

Unfortunately, many of these projects involve areas where asbestos is commonly found.

Materials hidden behind walls, beneath floor tiles, inside ceiling voids, or within old garage roofs are often only discovered once work has already begun.

The problem is simple: many homeowners don't know asbestos is present until they disturb it.

Children Spend More Time at Home

During school holidays, children spend significantly more time around the home environment.

This can become a concern when:

• Renovation projects are underway
• Garden structures are being repaired
• Old garages or sheds are being cleared out
• DIY work is taking place during the holidays

Children may unknowingly access work areas or come into contact with damaged materials if asbestos has not been identified beforehand.

While asbestos-related illnesses are linked to long-term exposure, preventing any unnecessary exposure remains essential.

Increased Use of Public Buildings and Leisure Facilities

Summer also means higher footfall at:

• Leisure centres
• Sports facilities
• Community centres
• Holiday parks
• Museums and attractions

Many of these buildings were constructed before asbestos was banned and may still contain asbestos-containing materials.

When buildings undergo maintenance, refurbishment, or emergency repairs during quieter holiday periods, asbestos is often discovered unexpectedly.

This is why asbestos management remains a critical responsibility for facilities managers and local authorities.

Schools Use Summer for Maintenance Projects

One of the busiest periods for school maintenance is the summer holiday.

With pupils off-site, schools often schedule:

• Refurbishments
• Classroom upgrades
• Roof repairs
• Mechanical and electrical works

Many UK schools still contain asbestos, making surveys and asbestos management plans essential before contractors begin work.

Failure to identify asbestos before maintenance starts can result in project delays, increased costs, and potential exposure risks.

Hot Weather Can Accelerate Material Deterioration

Many external asbestos-containing materials have been exposed to decades of weathering.

Summer heat can contribute to:

• Surface deterioration
• Cracking
• Material ageing
• Increased brittleness

This is particularly common with asbestos cement products found on:

• Garages
• Sheds
• Agricultural buildings
• Industrial units

Older materials may become more vulnerable to damage during maintenance or repair work.

How to Stay Safe This Summer

Whether you're planning renovations, managing a commercial property, or responsible for a public building, the safest approach is always to assume asbestos could be present in older structures.

Before starting work:

• Check whether asbestos surveys are available
• Review asbestos management plans
• Stop work if suspicious materials are uncovered
• Seek professional advice before disturbing unknown materials

Don't Let a Summer Project Become an Asbestos Problem

Summer should be about enjoying your home, workplace, or community facilities—not dealing with unexpected asbestos issues.

At ICEASBESTOS, we help homeowners, schools, businesses, and public organisations identify, manage, and remove asbestos safely and professionally.

Planning work this summer? Contact ICEASBESTOS before you start and make sure asbestos doesn't turn your project into a costly delay.