Asbestos cement roof waterproofing is one of the biggest capital decisions a facilities manager or landlord has to make on an ageing industrial building — and the variance between quotes is huge. Quotes for the same warehouse can differ several-fold depending on what is included. This article explains how asbestos roof encapsulation is priced in Ireland and Northern Ireland, exactly what drives the difference, and walks through three typical project types so you can sanity-check any quote you receive.
How Projects Are Priced
Duratite does not publish a price list — every asbestos cement roof is priced per project, with a fixed quote after a free site survey. Every quote covers the full supply-and-apply installation, including RAMS, access, survey, full warranty and clean-down. The table below shows how the systems compare:
| System | Warranty | Relative Upfront Cost | Best Suited To |
|---|---|---|---|
| GacoFlex S42 (silicone) | 20 years | Mid-to-high | Long-life commercial roofs |
| Gaco 127 (acrylic) | 10 years | Lowest | Budget / interim fixes |
| GacoFlex U92 (urethane) | 15 years | Highest | Industrial / high-traffic roofs |
| GacoPatch targeted repair | 2 years | Project-specific | Localised leaks and defects |
Every quote includes the full process described in our step-by-step process guide — biocide wash, GacoPatch repairs, GacoPrime primer, two coats of the chosen top system, final inspection and warranty registration.
What Drives Cost Up or Down
Six main factors push a price up or down on any asbestos roof project:
Roof area — bigger roofs unlock economy of scale. Below 500 m² you pay a mobilisation premium.
Roof condition — heavily weathered or moss-covered roofs need more prep time.
Access — if MEWPs or scaffolding are needed, access can add significantly to the price.
Height and wind exposure — taller and exposed Atlantic-facing buildings need more safety kit and weather contingency.
Rooflights and detail work — lots of penetrations slow application.
Location — remote and island sites cost more due to logistics.
System-by-System Comparison
GacoFlex S42 Silicone — The Long-Life Choice
Fibre-reinforced silicone, 20-year warranty, excellent UV and ponding resistance. Most specified system on Duratite asbestos projects in 2026.
Gaco 127 Acrylic — The Budget Choice
The lowest upfront cost. Water-based acrylic, 10-year warranty, good for moderate exposure. Best value where a building is scheduled for replacement in 10–15 years and you need an interim fix.
GacoFlex U92 Urethane — The High-Performance Choice
The highest upfront cost. Polyurethane, 15-year warranty, superior abrasion resistance. Selected for industrial roofs with heavy maintenance traffic or chemical exposure.
Get Free Advice or Book a Survey
Duratite's technical team provides free site assessments and fixed-price quotations across Ireland and Northern Ireland. No obligation.
Three Typical Project Types
Example 1 — Small Workshop, 400 m²
Typical 1970s workshop, single eaves-to-ridge slope, easy MEWP access, roof in fair condition. System: GacoFlex S42. Cost profile: fixed costs — survey, RAMS, access and welfare — make up a larger share of the price on a roof this size. Duration: 4–5 days.
Example 2 — Mid-Size Warehouse, 2,000 m²
Distribution shed, twin-pitch AC roof, gutters running through, scaffold towers required at gables. System: GacoFlex S42. Cost profile: the rate per m² falls as fixed costs spread across a larger area; gable scaffolding is a key line item. Duration: 12–16 days.
Example 3 — Large Factory, 6,000 m²
Older multi-bay manufacturing plant, dozens of rooflights, MEWP and scaffold combination. System: GacoFlex S42 with reinforced detailing. Cost profile: strong economy of scale on the main roof area, with rooflight and detail work adding labour time. Duration: 6–8 weeks.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Other common omissions: gutter clearance, re-bedding rooflights, flashings replacement, temporary edge protection, welfare facilities, and controlled wash-water disposal. Duratite quotes always itemise every element so you know exactly what you are paying for.
Land Remediation Relief (Northern Ireland)
Land Remediation Relief is a corporation tax relief that can apply to Northern Ireland companies only — it is not available to companies taxed in the Republic of Ireland. Qualifying Northern Ireland companies may be able to claim a 150% deduction on qualifying asbestos remediation costs. Take advice from your accountant before relying on it. Read the full guide: Land Remediation Relief for asbestos works.
Getting an Accurate Quote
Duratite offers a free, no-obligation suitability survey on any commercial asbestos cement roof in Ireland or Northern Ireland. The surveyor visits site, takes measurements, photographs the condition, and returns a written fixed quote within five working days with all line items broken out. Email info@duratite.ie to book.