Asbestos floor and ceiling tiles used to be very popular in the construction of houses due to their cost-effectiveness, durability, and the fact that manufacturers found them easier to make. Today, asbestos-containing tiles are no longer popular as they may pose health risks when they become damaged, worn, or chipped. It is therefore important that special precautions are taken when removing asbestos tiles or any tiles that you may suspect to contain asbestos.

The Benefits of Asbestos Floor Tiles

Asbestos floor tiles were very popular a few decades back as the asbestos gave the tiles many beneficial properties. Asbestos is heat resistant, which meant that the tiles did not crack when exposed to heat. They were durable, cost-effective and flexible. Asbestos tiles are also resistant to heat, moisture, oil, grease, and many other things that can harm other tiles.

The Dangers of Asbestos Floor and Ceiling Tiles

When the asbestos floor and ceiling tiles were intact and in good condition, they did not pose any danger. However, once the tiles become worn, chipped, broken, or are disturbed in any other way, small asbestos fibers may be released. When these fibers are released, they pose a danger and increase the risk of contracting Mesothelioma for anyone who comes into contact with these fibers.

Safely Removing Asbestos Floor and Ceiling Tiles

It is important that you do not remove any asbestos ceiling tiles yourself, but that you first get an asbestos tester to check whether the tiles do contain asbestos. If so, you should get a contractor to come and remove them for you. It is also best to get a specialized contractor to remove asbestos floor tiles but, should you do so yourself, it is important to take special precautions.

Never sand asbestos tiles or do anything else that would release dust particles into the air. Try to get disposable clothing to wear while removing the tiles, as asbestos fibers may attach to clothing. You should also soak the floor before removing the tiles and only use a wet mop to do any cleaning. Do not use a vacuum cleaner. Try to learn as much as you can about asbestos tile removal before beginning any task like this, or get someone else who is professionally qualified to do it for you.

Asbestos floor and ceiling tiles used to be very popular as they were resistant, durable, cost-effective, and flexible. Unfortunately when these tiles are broken, chipped, sanded or disturbed in any way, they can release their asbestos fibers into the atmosphere and increase your risk of contracting serious diseases such as Mesothelioma. It is therefore important that you take special precautions when removing these tiles and preferably get professional assistance with this task.