Asbestos Cement Flue Removal

At Blue A Ltd, we remove asbestos cement flues safely, legally and without compromise. Whether you’re upgrading your heating system, renovating an older property or have just discovered an asbestos flue in your loft or boiler room — our licensed team will take care of the full removal process from start to finish.

Cement flues were commonly installed in UK properties between the 1960s and 1980s, often as part of solid fuel or boiler systems. These pipes typically contain chrysotile (white asbestos) — considered “lower risk” by classification, but still extremely dangerous if cracked, drilled, or broken during removal.

Whether it's a domestic flue pipe or a larger industrial installation, we make asbestos cement flue removal safe, smooth and fully compliant.

Why asbestos cement flues are dangerous

At first glance, an old flue pipe might not seem like a major concern. But if it was installed before 1999, there’s a strong chance it contains asbestos cement — and that comes with real health risks.

Asbestos cement flues were commonly used in:

• Boiler systems
• Solid fuel appliances
• Gas fires
• Central heating vents
• Chimney liners

They typically contain chrysotile (white asbestos), which is tightly bound within the cement matrix. While this makes them relatively stable in normal conditions, the danger begins when they are:

• Cracked, drilled or cut
• Disturbed during refurbishment
• Dismantled without proper control

That’s when asbestos fibres can be released into the air — fibres that are invisible, long-lasting, and deadly when inhaled.

Health risks include:

• Mesothelioma
• Lung cancer
• Asbestosis
• Chronic respiratory diseases

Even a small amount of disturbed material can contaminate an entire room or building. That’s why flues must be removed carefully, with licensed techniques, PPE and compliant waste handling — not just broken out or “cut away” by general trades.

At Blue A, we don’t take chances. We remove asbestos cement flues the right way — protecting everyone on-site, and everyone who comes after.

How to identify asbestos in flue pipes?

It’s not always easy to tell whether a flue contains asbestos — many look like standard cement or fibre pipes. But if your property was built or renovated before 1999, there’s a high chance the flue is made from asbestos cement.

Common signs your flue may contain asbestos:

• Installed before 2000, especially in the 1960s–1980s
• Hard, grey cement appearance with a slightly fibrous texture
• Fitted to back boilers, solid fuel stoves, or heating systems
• Joined with metal clips or collars instead of glue or plastic
• Often marked with codes like AC, A/C or Cement Asbestos

Even experienced installers can mistake asbestos flues for modern fibre cement. And unfortunately, breaking a piece off to “check” is exactly what you shouldn’t do.

Safe identification starts with testing

The only reliable way to confirm asbestos is:

1. Book a site visit
2. We take a controlled sample
3. It’s analysed at a UKAS-accredited lab
4. You get results in 48–72 hours

If you’re unsure, don’t guess — let us confirm it safely. And if asbestos is present, we can remove the flue with no risk to you, your contractors, or your property.

Asbestos cement flue removal process – safe, legal and HSE-compliant

Removing a cement flue containing asbestos isn’t just a quick disconnect — it’s a controlled, regulated operation that requires proper planning, protective measures, and licensed disposal. At Blue A, we follow strict HSE procedures to keep the process safe, legal, and disruption-free.

1. Site inspection and risk assessment

We start by inspecting the flue’s location, structure and condition. Is it part of an old boiler system? Is it fixed through walls or ceilings? We assess access, risk of damage, and the best removal method. If asbestos isn’t confirmed yet, we’ll take a sample for lab testing.

2. Sealing and containment

Before any removal starts, we:

• Seal off the work area (loft, boiler room, etc.)
• Post warning signs and restrict access
• Set up negative air pressure (if required)
• Prepare all PPE and HEPA-filtered equipment

This prevents any accidental fibre release into surrounding rooms.

3. Controlled removal of the flue

We carefully dismantle the flue section by section:

• All parts are sprayed with a fine-mist solution to suppress dust
• Wherever possible, flue sections are removed intact
• Cutting is avoided unless essential — and only with approved tools
• All pieces are immediately double-bagged in UN-approved sacks

We use H-type vacuums throughout to control fine particles.

4. Decontamination and site clean-up

Once the flue is removed:

• Surfaces are wiped and vacuumed using HSE-approved methods
• All tools, PPE, and containment materials are sealed as hazardous waste
• We inspect the area to confirm no visible residue remains

Optional air testing can be provided for high-sensitivity environments.

5. Legal waste disposal and paperwork

All asbestos waste is transported to a licensed facility. You receive:

• A Hazardous Waste Consignment Note
• A unique waste reference number
• Legal proof of compliant removal and disposal

No shortcuts. No grey areas. Just certified, professional asbestos cement flue removal — done properly, every time.

What happens after the flue is removed?

Once your asbestos cement flue has been safely dismantled and removed, we don’t just leave a gap in the wall and call it a day. At Blue A, we make sure your space is clean, safe and ready for whatever comes next — whether that’s a new boiler install, renovation, or structural work.

What you can expect after removal:

• Clean, clear space – fully vacuumed and decontaminated
• No loose debris – all cement dust and fibres removed from surfaces
• No access restrictions – the area is safe to re-enter and use normally
• Full documentation – including your Hazardous Waste Consignment Note

We’ll also advise on any additional works you might need, like:

• Temporary flue sealing if removal is part of a phased project
• Wall patching or backfilling if the flue was embedded in masonry
• Next-step coordination with gas engineers or heating installers

Need help planning reinstatement? Just ask — we work with trusted partners across the UK and can refer reliable tradespeople where needed.

Bottom line: once we’ve removed your flue, you’re not left with problems — just clean air and clear progress.