asbestos water tank and cracked wood support advice

[marc1977]

Hi,

I recently had a leak in the mains water pipe to my asbestos water tank. Ive fixed the leak and in the process ended up draining the tank down and refilling it. I have 2 questions -

1) ive noticed since the tank support beams have large splits in the wood (see pics). Im assuming they have been there for some time but cant be certain. would you recommend i get this fixed. maybe replaced professionally or perhaps metal supports?

2) Assuming Im changing the support platform I would like the asbestos tank replaced too. Is it generally safe to remove these tanks if wearing a face mask and maybe just carry it over to corner of loft? or is tank replacement a job best left to a professional?

 

[SJB]

If I was you mate I'd be leaving that tank well alone. Get a plumber in to build a new support and install a new plastic tank and pipe to it.
Leave the thing where it is, getting it out will cost you a fortune. It will do no harm as long as it isn't disturbed.

 

[joni os]

The splits are not structurally significant,caused by cross grain shrinkage, and not effecting end bearing on ceiling joists. More worrying is weight taken by two ceiling joists. Unless joists themselves, are supported off internal wall, load from replacement tank best spread over 4 joists.
Asbestos tank normally left in roof, could be wrapped in polythene, but don't break up to remove through hatch.