The Correct Way to Cover Asbestos Floor Tiles in 2023

Asbestos floor tiles were widely used in homes and buildings before being banned in the 1980s due to health hazards. While the best solution is removing damaged asbestos tiles, covering over tiles in good condition can be done safely with proper precautions.

When Is It Acceptable to Cover Asbestos Floor Tiles?

Covering undisturbed asbestos floor tiles is only recommended if they are in good condition with no visible damage or deterioration. However, having the tiles professionally inspected and testing the area's air quality before covering is crucial.

Air testing checks for airborne asbestos fibers, which can be released when tiles become damaged or disturbed. If testing detects concerning asbestos levels, covering the existing tiles is not advised. Removing them properly would be safer.

Consult an Asbestos Abatement Professional

Before installing new flooring over asbestos tiles, first consult with a certified asbestos abatement contractor. They can assess tile condition, take air samples, and determine if encapsulation is appropriate or if removal is better.

Abatement pros can also provide advice to ensure covering the tiles is done safely. Take full advantage of their expertise.

Dangers of Improperly Covering Asbestos Tiles

Encapsulating damaged or deteriorating asbestos tiles with improper materials can make the situation worse:

• Fragile, cracked tiles may release more asbestos fibers when disturbed by new floor installation.
• Some coverings may degrade over time and fail to contain the asbestos.
• Moisture issues under coverings can accelerate tile deterioration.
• Insufficient insulation under new floors may cause temperature changes that impact asbestos tiles.

When Covering Goes Wrong

Attempting asbestos tile encapsulation without proper testing and materials can backfire. The covering itself could disintegrate, or the process could aggravate existing asbestos hazards.

This may release higher levels of toxic fibers into the home's air, placing occupants at risk. Covering should only be considered if done safely.

Properly Inspect Tiles Before Covering

A close inspection by an experienced professional helps determine if existing asbestos floor tiles are good candidates for covering. Look for:

• Cracked, broken, or otherwise damaged tiles.
• Sections where tiles are missing or have gaps.
• Signs of water damage or stains on the tiles.
• Loose tiles that are not fully adhered.

Also test the area's air quality before deciding on encapsulation. Asbestos air testing is the only way to confirm if fibers are being released.

Assess Encapsulation Materials

In addition to the tiles themselves, inspect any adhesives, leveling compounds, or other materials that will be used to cover them. Ensure they do not contain asbestos.

It would be counterproductive for covering materials to introduce new asbestos hazards. Have them tested to be certain.

Choosing the Right Materials to Cover Asbestos Tiles

Selecting suitable covering materials is key to safely encapsulating asbestos floor tiles. Certain products are better choices than others:

• Rigid insulation panels - Help regulate temperature under new flooring to prevent deterioration of asbestos tiles.
• Self-leveling cement - Can fill in gaps and create a smooth surface over uneven asbestos tiles before installing the floor covering.
• Low-VOC adhesives - Adhesives with minimal volatile organic compound (VOC) content are less likely to interact with asbestos tiles and cause deterioration.

Unsuitable Covering Materials

Avoid coverings that may damage tiles, trap moisture, or degrade over time. For example:

• Plywood or OSB sheets are porous and can retain moisture.
• Vinyl tile friction-fits directly against the asbestos surface.
• Sheet vinyl can tear over time and is difficult to fully adhere.

Key Installation Steps for Safe Asbestos Tile Encapsulation

Once suitable covering materials are selected, proper installation technique is equally important for safety:

• Wear adequate respiratory and body protection when handling asbestos tiles.
• Gently clean the tile surfaces with HEPA-vacuuming and damp cloths to remove debris before covering.
• Seal the tiles with an approved asbestos encapsulant to bind surface fibers.
• Apply rigid insulation panels and self-leveling compound over the tiles to fill gaps and depressions.
• Install the new floor covering using adhesive , not nails or staples, to avoid puncturing tiles.

Use Caution During Covering Process

Work cautiously to avoid unnecessary disturbance or damage to the asbestos floor tiles during covering. The goal is to encapsulate them completely, not exacerbate existing hazards.

Ongoing Monitoring After Covering Asbestos Tiles

Once asbestos floor tiles are covered, continue monitoring the encapsulated area:

• Periodically check for cracks, punctures, tears, or other damage in the covering materials.
• Have the area re-tested for airborne asbestos every 3-5 years.
• Maintain proper ventilation and humidity levels to prevent moisture issues.

If damage occurs or concerning air samples are found, consult an abatement pro about whether additional repairs or removal are needed.

Be Vigilant About Encapsulation Monitoring

Do not install coverings over asbestos tiles and assume they will be problem-free indefinitely. Schedule regular checks to ensure the encapsulation remains intact.

When Removing Asbestos Tiles is the Safer Option

In some cases, removal is better than covering:

• If tiles are extensively damaged or deteriorating.
• If initial air testing detects concerning levels of asbestos.
• When doing major renovations that will significantly disturb the tiles.
• Before selling a property with asbestos tile flooring.

Removing asbestos tiles is the only permanent solution. Encapsulation contains them but does not eliminate long-term risks.

Weigh Your Asbestos Tile Options

Consider the pros and cons of covering vs. removing. In some situations, complete removal, though more initially expensive, is safer and prevents future hazards.

Asbestos Tile Removal Must Be Done By Professionals

Do-it-yourself asbestos tile removal is extremely dangerous due to fiber release risks.

Asbestos abatement contractors employ specialized procedures to safely contain and dispose of asbestos materials. This includes:

• Isolating the workspace.
• Wearing protective equipment.
• Using HEPA vacuums.
• Wetting tiles to reduce airborne dust.
• Sealing removed asbestos waste.

They also follow all federal and local regulations for proper asbestos waste transport and disposal.

Leave Asbestos Removal to the Experts

Asbestos exposure risks make DIY removal extremely hazardous. Always hire certified asbestos contractors, regardless of whether you are removing or covering tiles.

Covering undamaged asbestos floor tiles is acceptable using proper materials, air testing, professional advice, and installation precautions. However, encapsulation has ongoing risks if not monitored vigilantly.

Removing deteriorating asbestos tiles completely, while more disruptive initially, eliminates long-term hazards through proper abatement. Evaluate both options carefully to make the safest choice.

Use certified professionals for assessments, air testing, encapsulation or removal. Do not attempt DIY asbestos tile projects due to the serious health dangers. With responsible handling by experienced contractors, asbestos floor tile hazards can be minimized or eliminated.