We know how prevalent was the use of asbestos in construction materials. Due to its insulating nature, asbestos was heavily used in tiles too. This fibrous material was used with other compounds like vinyl to give floor tiles strength and durability. However, since it has been found potential carcinogen, it has been banned from using in any form.
Still some old buildings possibly contain asbestos. If you live or work in such a structure and are not sure whether asbestos is present or not, here’s a guide for you. Find out how to spot and deal with asbestos in tiles in a safe way.
Why asbestos is found in tiles?
Asbestos was used in tiles for many reasons. Its powdered form can be bonded with vinyl to create robust tiles with fire resistance and insulative properties. Asbestos has also sound damping properties, which makes it the perfect material for ceiling tiles that are used to reduce noise. Such tiles are commonly found in acoustic settings.
Moreover, floor tiles also include asbestos, which makes them insulative and fire-resistant. These tiles are common in many commercial and industrial premises. Most probably, there will also be a layer of adhesive like mastic, under floor tiles, which also likely contain asbestos.
How to recognize asbestos in tiles?
Unlike other materials, it is difficult to tell whether asbestos is present in tiles by just looking at it. Because asbestos is merely a material contained within the tile, asbestos floor and ceiling tiles might look similar to those containing solely non-hazardous materials.
So the only way to know whether your tiles contain asbestos or not is by carrying out an asbestos inspection. An asbestos removal expert can collect a sample of the tile during an asbestos survey to determine whether it contains asbestos. The surveyor will then give a report with information on the asbestos discovered and any next steps.
How to remove asbestos from tiles?
The safest way is to get rid of asbestos by removing the tiles. However, sometimes it might be better to leave the tiles as it is if they are not damaged, as attempting to remove them might disrupt the asbestos. If you decide to remove them, keep in mind that only experts in abatement should remove asbestos-containing tiles.
As part of their process, an asbestos abatement professional will first examine the building to ascertain if asbestos materials are present. To determine whether there is asbestos present, samples will be sent to a facility for testing. And if found, you should not delay the removal process and ask your asbestos removal contractor to get started as soon as possible to minimize the harm.
Hire Asbestos Removal and Disposal Contractor in Sydney
If you are looking for experienced asbestos removal in Sydney you have found us. Deft Demo has years of experience offering effective and immediate asbestos removal services in Sydney and the surrounding area. We have a fully trained fleet of workers and cutting-edge machinery to carry out the task in a safer and faster way so that you can get a sigh of relief in your home or office. Contact us today to get a free quote and consultation for asbestos removal.