We had a flooding problem and had to pull a very old carpet out. Underneath we found 9×9 tiles,probably containing asbestos.A few of the tiles broke in the process and also some tiles are cracked probably from tacking the carpet down.Currently we use the room for storage and my hudbands clothes,but eventually we like to use it for living again. What is the safest and most inexpensive way to deal with that floor. We will not take the tiles out.How big is the danger of Asbestos exposure right now?
After taking carpet out we found old tiles (probably with Asbestos)Some broke/are cracked. How can we be safe?
07
Jun
sensible_man
June 7, 2010 at 6:46 am
Small to none. Asbestos is dangerous when it is in dust form and airborne. You could seal it with a clear sealant or install new tile over it. Encapsulation is the best way for protection other than removal.
daorangejello
June 7, 2010 at 7:37 am
depends on what government agency you talk with
you are not in any more danger now than before
throw the tiles away,, sweep up the dust ,,put down your new floor,, and you will forget it in time,,
dartiator63
June 7, 2010 at 8:17 am
The asbestos used in the tiles is not a hazard unless they are released into the air by breaking the tiles. You can have one of the pieces analyzed for content. If it does contain asbestos, you will either have to hire a remediation contractor, which involves, haz mat suites, negative air filtration, and specialized bagging and dumping requirements. Not a DYI job as you have to be licensed.
Sorry there is no better way but as long as you do not remove the tile, you can still cover it over with new flooring or carpet.
You can find a reputable contractor through servic magic
rwa000
June 7, 2010 at 9:16 am
you are in more danger before you removed the carpet, don’t drill it , sand it or cut it and you can remove it yourself
Inspector
June 7, 2010 at 9:17 am
Do not listen to any who suggest you can do this yourself **if the tiles contain asbestos** (and they probably do).
Throwing them in the garbage can get you in a world of trouble (not to mention exposure). The tiles are only harmful if broken and you mentioned some are.
1) Get them tested
2) Get bids from licensed abatement contractors for encapsulation (if possible) and/or removal.
luka
June 7, 2010 at 9:52 am
you say probably,yet are not sure find out first,and put your new floor over them.
Brad S
June 7, 2010 at 10:45 am
Asbestos is not dangerous in a solid form .DO NOT sand it. You can level the floor with a floor patch (you can pick up at your local hardware or flooring store)after leveling you can put any thing you would like on top. AS long as the old tiles are secure to the floor.