Our house has very old asbestos slate type siding, painted at various times. We want to side the house with a concrete or cement siding product. Is it possible to do this right over the top of the asbestos? If so, how is this done?

For various reasons I recommend removing the asbestos before residing. First, you should remove the old siding to investigate potential rot damage that may be hiding under the asbestos. These will be most prominant around doors and windows. Next, you will want to install a good vapor barrier to the house. Also, be sure to prime the new siding on all sides prior to installation. Finally, if for no other reason than valuing your extremidies get rid of the asbestos. It is brittle, doesn't hold a nail well and may crack and fall, causeing damage to you and/or others helping below.