Modular homes with asbestos cement sheeting
Description
Modular (kit) homes marketed from mid 1970s-1980s by franchises throughout Australia and South Pacific. Generally known in Australia as Logan Homes. Panelling manufactured by Hardie’s.
An early version of prefabricated expanded polystyrene sandwich (EPS) panelling was a key element of the modular system (refer image 8), used for walls and ceilings.
Ceiling panels were solid sandwich panels of AC sheeting with a polystyrene core. Wall panels were AC sheeting attached to metal frames requiring polystyrene batts to be inserted.
Later designs from the mid-1980s saw the AC sheeting layers replaced with non-ACM fibre cement sheeting.
Marketed as a quick and cheaper housing alternative, which was cyclone proof, able to be constructed by a ‘handyman’ in weeks. Attractive to buyers in cyclone-subjected locations.
Diagram at image 8 is from published James Cook Cyclone Structural Testing Station report:
Testing a Logan Unit House Designed for 63m/s Winds – 1984.
Both AC sheeting and fibre cement sheeting are referenced in this report as located in the structure tested.
Brands/products
- Logan Modular Homes
- Logan Unit Homes
- Pacific Modular
- Marlin Modular
Years of production/use
1970s to early 1980s (ACM risk).
Advertising in March 1984 stated that about 14 Logan Homes were being built every day. Around half at this time, were in Queensland.
Residential uses
Housing
Industrial uses
Community buildings, mine site accommodation and field offices
Be aware
Some cases of mixed panelling (AC and non-ACM) supplied within kits appears to have occurred in mid-1980s. Multiple sampling may be required during asbestos surveys.
