Covering Asbestos Contaminated Floor Tiles

Submitted By: E. Johnston
If you watch the news, you may have heard discussion and concern about asbestos toxins and how asbestos exposure is linked to various forms of cancer, more specifically Mesothelioma. Many people have filed lawsuits over their exposure to asbestos toxins as a result of suffering ill health and complications resulting from their exposure; however, no amount of compensation can replace their quality of life or prevent significant emotional duress.

If you have an older home or even one that was built in the 1980's, it is a good idea to have the floors tested for the presence of asbestos before you begin pulling up tile in your kitchen or bathrooms. What most people do not realize is that asbestos may be harmful even if not disturbed.

It is vital that you have your home tested for asbestos as soon as possible if you plan on remodeling because removing asbestos is difficult and dangerous process.

Should I Really Cover the Tiles?
If you want to upgrade or remodel your home and the tiles on your floor test positive for asbestos and they are tightly installed, the most efficient way to continue with your remodel may be to simply cover the tiles. Why? As soon as you begin pulling up tiles that contain asbestos, you are putting yourself and family at risk of toxic exposure. To remove and replace the tiles, you should consult a professional.

If you have a 1950's home with a basement that has tile or vinyl flooring that tests positive for asbestos, but is in good shape, you may be able to cover the tile with carpeting. If the tile has not been disturbed since it was installed, there may not be a reason to disturb it.

It is Possible to Pull up the Tile Though, Right?
You can have a professional that is licensed to work with asbestos remove the tile, but it may be expensive because of the precautions that must be taken and the extensive labor involved. Many professionals who can do the job will advise you to cover the floor rather than pull it up. The risk of removing a floor with asbestos is that you can expose your home to a toxin that can harm you and your family. If the tile is peeled up and in bad condition, there may be no choice but to remove the tile, but a professional that is licensed in asbestos removal can advise you on all of your options.

Final Thoughts
Some people have a tendency to assume that if their tile tests positive for containing asbestos, then it must be removed at once. More research, however, is finding that leaving the asbestos-containing material alone and not disturbing it is sometimes safer than the possible health risks of exposing your family to the toxins released by trying to remove it. Again, if the tiles are packed tightly then the asbestos is contained and you are not at risk for exposure. Asbestos is in its most harmful state when being moved and exposed to the air.