From the 1920s, asbestos was a very popular building material until 1980 when it was banned. Because of its low cost and exceptional fire-resistant and insulating properties, asbestos was primarily used for the manufacture of various products.
Vinyl and painting over carpet or tile glue were once an attractive option for flooring in the early 20th-century. Because of the danger of fire, it was extensively used. Its airborne fibers can cause serious health problems for those who are exposed. This material, once considered a miracle mineral, was found to be capable of causing life-threatening illnesses.
legal asbestos abatement can be dangerous, even though they might seem dangerous. However, they are not dangerous if they are broken down and the particles are released into the air. If they are in good condition, you may not need to take them out. It is important to be able to identify them.
Here are four signs that your flooring might contain asbestos.
Age: Flooring that was installed between 1920-1960 has a greater chance of containing asbestos. To determine the condition of the flooring, you should inspect it. There is no reason to worry as long as the tiles remain intact and are in good condition. If the tiles show signs of deterioration it is best to call an asbestos professional.
Dimension
The size of the tiles is another sign that can indicate asbestos in your flooring. Flooring sold in the golden age of asbestos tiling was available in three sizes: 6″, 9″, or 12 inches squares. It was made by Armstrong and Flintkote and was thicker than most vinyl tiles.
Adhesive
The black mastic that is used to attach these tiles can also contain asbestos. This adhesive, which is black in color, may contain between 15 and 85 percent asbestos. It is usually only visible after the floor has been taken down to make room for new flooring.
Discoloration
You will also need to be alert for discoloration. Asbestos tiles were made up of asphalt as the main component. It can leak and cause tiles to turn grayish-brown or black from the oil. Asbestos fibers are more likely to be found in tiles that have discoloration.
As asbestos fibers are microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye, it is almost impossible to determine if flooring has asbestos. Although there is no way to tell if a floor has asbestos, it is possible to test it in a laboratory. But yes, with the help of an asbestos removal, you can easily get rid of them.
