Asbestos in linoleum tile?

Question

Asbestos in linoleum tile?

Answer 1

if the squares are smaller than 12" they probably have asbestos

Answer 2

Depends on the age and type of tile.

In US, prior to 1984, 9 x 9, consider them to have asbestos.  Also, the black mastic, (glue), could also contain asbestos.  

Now, this asbestos is safe, as long as it is not made airborne.  Do not tear it up, do not break it, do not sand it, etc.  

Cover over the tile if you are wanting to do a face lift.  If you have holes, there are products that you can pour on the floor to level out the floor, without taking up the tile.  

If you must cut the tile, there are only three options.  

1.  For large jobs, a qualified asbestos abatement contractor.  Costly, but for the protection of anyone living in the area, it's a really mandatory.

2. Wet cut.  For a small hole, cut, etc.,,,, do a wet cut with a water or gel that will capture the fibers.  Then clean up everything and dispose in a nice air tight canister.  Since this is only for Small jobs, a tuberware container does OK.  Use a N-95 particulate mask, if you want to be a little safer.  

3. Dry cut.  (This is what the contractors do.  I don't recommend it for home owners, but you should know what they should do.)

Seal up with plastic all areas of the home where no work is to be done.

Seal up the HVAC system, to prevent contamination.

Wear tyvek, and a respirator, properly fitted to you.

Use HEPA filter vacuum to capture the dust as it is generated.

Use the HEPA vac after the work is done to clean up everything.

Dispose of everything in plastic bags, air tight.

Decontaminate by removing your mask and tyvek in a contained area.  

Portable showers are expected, and these can be plastic wading pools with a helper and a hose.  

This is the type of procedure you should see a contractor perfroming.

Best advice, always, don't cut it, don't break it, just cover it.  The fancy wword is encapsulation.  

Answer 3

Yes in the old thick squares. It is not a danger because the asbestos is in a binder and will never get air born to cause any problems.