Prices of Asbestos Ceiling in Nigeria

In recent times, the building industry in Nigeria has witnessed a revival of a once-beloved construction material: asbestos ceilings. Once a staple in many Nigerian homes, these ceilings faced a decline due to health concerns associated with traditional asbestos materials. However, with advancements in technology and safety measures, modern asbestos ceilings are making a comeback, offering a blend of affordability, durability, and other benefits.

In this article, we delve into the current prices of asbestos ceilings in Nigeria, their advantages, and the considerations to bear in mind.

Current Prices of Asbestos Ceilings in Nigeria (2024)

Before diving into the advantages and considerations, it’s crucial to understand the current market prices. The cost of asbestos ceilings in Nigeria can vary due to factors such as location, vendor, raw material prices, transportation costs, and government policies. However, a recent survey revealed two main types:

• High-grade asbestos ceiling (1200 mm by 1200 mm): N1,200 – N1,500 per sheet
• Low-grade asbestos ceiling (1200 mm by 1200 mm): N900 – N1,100 per sheet

Advantages of Modern Asbestos Ceilings

Modern asbestos ceilings have undergone significant transformations to ensure user safety while retaining their core benefits. Here are some compelling advantages:

1. Affordability: Asbestos ceilings offer a budget-friendly option compared to other ceiling materials, making them a preferred choice for cost-conscious homeowners.
2. Lightweight: Their lightweight nature reduces the need for extensive structural support, resulting in potential cost savings during construction.
3. Easy Installation: The lightweight and long sheets make the installation process relatively straightforward and faster than other materials like POP and PVC.
4. Durability: These ceilings are highly durable, weatherproof, resistant to termites, and fire-resistant.
5. Thermal Insulation: They contribute to enhancing a building’s energy efficiency by providing effective thermal insulation.

Considerations:

While modern asbestos ceilings offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks:

1. Health Concerns: Asbestos ceilings contain silica mineral fibre. Under specific conditions, they can release dust that, if inhaled, poses health risks, including the potential for lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
2. Respiratory Tract Issues: Inhaling dust from asbestos ceilings can lead to respiratory tract infections, causing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and inflammation.

Conclusion

The reintroduction of modern asbestos ceilings in Nigeria reflects the construction industry’s continuous evolution. While they offer undeniable benefits in terms of affordability, durability, and ease of installation, it’s crucial to approach their use with caution due to associated health risks. As with any construction material, homeowners and builders should prioritize safety, ensuring proper installation and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards.