Questions and answers about possible or certain asbestos-containing floor tiles or sheet flooring.

This article series provides flooring identification requests & photographs & discussion of UK flooring tiles or cottage tiles that may contain asbestos as well as a photo example of non-asbestos flooring.

Asbestos-Containing Flooring in the U.K. FAQs

These Questions and answers about identifying asbestos flooring installed in UK buildings were posted originally

at ASBESTOS FLOORING IDENTIFICATION 1950's or LATER in the U.K - be sure to revew that article.

In the U.K. buildings constructed or renovated before 2000 may have included asbestos-containing products such as drywall, plasterboard, pipe insulation, or vinyl or asphalt-based floor tile or sheet flooring.

Manufacture and supply of all asbestos was banned by the end of 1999.

Existing asbestos articles can continue in use until they reach the end of their service life. (HSE 2017).

Also see DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy steps to make a good guess.

On 2022-09-24 by InspectApedia-911 (mod) - remove carpet grippers and cover with new material

@Clint Moon,

You would treat the floors presume to contain asbestos and leave it in place and cover it over. If you needed to do a demolition then you would test a representative sample of both the floor tile and the mastic adhesive for asbestos.

Yes of course remove the carpet gripper - (aka. "tack strips") -

You'll find it's impossible to do that without a little floor tile damage, but it ought not be substantial, just some holes and dust around nails shot through the strips.

I work with a thin wide flat-bar and do some light hammering under the carpet grippers right where I see nails penetrating into the floor below. Don't tap harder than necessary and wear a dust mask to be extra careful.

Damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming are sufficient cleanup.

On 2022-09-24 by Clint Moon

Hi just lifted carpet in living room in mid 80s house to find these beneath. Seems to be black adhesive underneath any info gratefully received.

Is it generally considered OK to go ahead and remove the carpet gripper before replacing the floor without too much concern? (most probably laminate with underlay)

On 2022-09-18 by InspectApedia (mod) - UK blue tiles with brown adhesive

@Dermot,

It’s best to treat these tiles as PACM (presumed asbestos containing material). If you only had a few tiles break without creating a lot of dust, the exposure would be quite minimal.

As far as leaving the flooring in place which is a good alternative, you have options.

Start by reviewing this article

ASBESTOS FLOOR TILES LEFT IN PLACE

and for your question about leveling the surface before laying down new flooring, also see

FLOOR LEVELING COMPOUNDS & FILLERS

On 2022-09-18 by Dermot

Have recently started lifting tiles in bathroom, saw that they had been laid down on what I thought was some sort of blue backer board, but then soon realised they were old blue vinyl type tiles which were glued to plywood with a very sticky brown type of glue.

House built/completed 1978 in UK. Presume these could be asbestos tiles - they are quite brittle and parts tend to come off with the ceramic tile above them, had been trying to carefully use scraper to take out in single pieces, but proving difficult and tile adhesive/grout above making it even more difficult.

Now considering leaving in place and pouring floor leveling compound to encapsulate before putting down new tiles. Will need to try scrape off the tile grout on top - would this be safe? Also, had a handful of the vinyls break here and there, would this have been significant exposure? Thanks

On 2022-08-29 by InspectApedia (mod)

@Ty,

Without further specific information, it's best to treat the flooring as presumed asbestos containing material. In the Recommended Articles list at the end of this article, take a look at

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy questions to answer

Keep in mind also that the simplest and safest thing is to leave the flooring in place and cover over with new flooring or sealant.

On 2022-08-29 by Ty

Home built 1930+, unsure if these vinyl tiles contain asbestos

On 2022-08-25 by InspectApedia-911 (mod) - follow safe asbestos flooring removal guidelines

@Jessica,

Sure Jessica,

you should stop work and read the advice given above in these two articles

ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE
ASBESTOS REMOVAL, WETTING GUIDELINES

live links above

and then let me know what questions or concerns you have

On 2022-08-25 by Jessica

Our house was built in 1950-1966. Started happily attacking the floor tiles before realising they could contain asbestos. What do you think chances are if these tiles having asbestos in? Please help.

...

On 2022-08-09 by InspectApedia (mod)

@Andrew,

My advice remains the same, i.e. take a look at the articles I cited above.

And in at the Recommended Articles section be sure to read also

ASBESTOS REMOVAL, WETTING GUIDELINES

On 2022-08-09 by Andrew

@InspectApedia ,

My house was built around 1900.

On 2022-08-09 by InspectApedia (mod)

@Andrew,

Without knowing the age of your home, I would suggest you treat the flooring as presumed asbestos containing material (PACM).

Also, see the five easy questions to answer at

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS?

https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Material-Test.php

And if you must remove it, see our

ASBESTOS FLOOR REMOVAL GUIDE at

https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Floor-Removal.php

On 2022-08-09 by Andrew

I just started renovating my house and had already begun tearing up this lino (it is brittle and cannot be taken out without breaking) before it occurred to me that it may contain asbestos. An opinion would be greatly appreciated.

On 2022-07-30 by InspectApedia-911 (mod) - UK flat lightweight patio tiles

@Neil,

Asbestos appears in some ceramic or concrete flooring tiles but isn't common.

I agree that if the tiles are quite thin & fragile they might actually have been intended for another use such as siding. (Asbestos cement siding was a common product in the 1970s in the UK)

On 2022-07-30 by Neil

These tiles are on the patio outside a flat I have bought. They are very light in weight therefore I wanted to see f they may contain asbestos. They are 1970's in stalled.

On 2022-05-27 by InspectApedia-911 (mod)

@Laura midgley,

Sorry your photos too blurry for me to make out what it depicts. However this article will help you

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS?

https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Floor-Test.php

On 2022-05-27 by Laura midgley

Found these under my. floor asbestos?

On 2022-04-21 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator - former Marley UK flooring employee offers insight and assistance

@Barry Smith,

Thank you so much for the interesting and helpful comment about asbestos - or not-asbestos - in Marley UK flooring.

I imagine you'll agree that trace-levels of asbestos in limestone used as a filler in a flooring product are not at all likely to be an environmental hazard for people. Rather it's where significant levels of asbestos shorts were used as filler or fibres as reinforcement.

If you can help find any Marley documentation that mentions the "last-used" date for asbestos that'd be a valuable contribution to this data.

Daniel.

On 2022-04-21 by Barry Smith

Hi, I used to work for Marley (UK) as a development lab assistant on leaving school in 1974. My main work involved the development of the cushion floor range of vinyl flooring but also did work on thier more traditional tiles and shop floor range.

The cushion floor vinyl flooring was based on an asbestos backing (1 to 2mm) spread with theramally blown vinyl and transfer coated with a print. So yes this product will contain asbestos.

The flooring tiles and shop floor product were both predominantly vinyl with a calcium carbonate limestone filler as of 1974 no asbestos appeared to have been added in the mixes I prepared for lab work. Of coarse the limestone contain trace amounts of asbestos form minerals.

I left after 6 months and after a period in other labs took a degree and am now retired as a professor of environmental geochemistry and health. As I am retired I am happy to try and assist with any enquires you may have Barry

On 2022-04-17 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator

@Katherine,

If your question us about asbestos in UK flooring, do check the explanation and dates above on this page,

Then see

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS?

https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Floor-Test.php

On 2022-04-16 by Katherine

Hello,

We bought a mostly renovated house last year with a few rooms still to do. I’m a bit worried about our laundry floor. The sheet of vinyl/linoleum is all intact but on vacuuming is bubbling/lifting in sections. It looks all sealed around the edges with silicon. Is this in a safe condition to leave.

On 2022-03-22 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator - asphalt asbestos floor tile

@Simon Fagan,

That looks like asphalt asbestos floor tile.

What are the location and age of the building?

On 2022-03-22 by Simon Fagan

On 2022-01-06 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator - multiple layers of asbestos-suspect floor tiles

@Richard,

You should handle the flooring as presumed to contain asbestos and treat it accordingly.

You can try answering the 5 easy steps shown here:

DOES THIS FLOORING CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy steps that can help you make a reasonable guess at whether or not the floor you ask about contains asbestos.

https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Floor-Test.php

Asbestos is safe and legal to remain in homes or public buildings as long as the asbestos materials are in good condition and the asbestos can not be released into the air. - US EPA

The safest and least costly approach is to leave the flooring alone, in place, and to cover it with new material.

If the floor is in poor condition or must be removed then see the asbestos floor removal and asbestos hazard reduction articles found in the ARTICLE INDEX at the end of any of these pages.

On 2022-01-05 by Richard

We have a 1971 house and are in the middle of refitting the kitchen. It was floored with laminate, over stick on lino type tiles, over floral tiles, over green tiles direct to the floor. I've already removed everything but the base tiles, which I've just looked at and seen the asbestos issue.

The photo shows those tiles still in place and the ones I removed via hammer and chisel. The green ones are about 3 mm thick and 25cm x 25cm and the patterned ones, 2 mm thick and 30cm x 30 cm.

On 2022-01-11 by Inspectapedia Com Moderator - 1963 Manchester UK 9x9 floor tiles

@Carly,

I would treat that floor as presumed to contain asbestos based on its age and general appearance.

See more details above in this article.

If the only damage to your floor is in a small area less than 1 square meter you might clean-up with HEPA vacuuming and damp wiping.

But if larger areas of the floor are loose and coming up you may need more extensive flooring cleanup before covering the remaining, securely-adhered tiles with a layer of new flooring.

If you face a costly demolition, then it's worth having a sample tested.

On 2022-01-11 by Carly

Hi, I found these in my rented apartment under some carpet ...

• Built 1963
• Manchester, UK
• 9x9 inches
• no real sign of black mastic
• they are not flexible
• rock hard
• looks rocky / grainy inside, not fibrous

Any help appreciated, I have been living here for 2 years with my 6 year old :( ...... Thanks, Carly

...

On 2021-10-26 by inspectapedia.com.moderator

@Ronnie Hall,

Yes those tiles could contain asbestos. To make a more-informed guess please see the tips found at

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy questions to tell if your FLOOR probably contains asbestos - -

inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Floor-Test.php

Best to leave in place and cover over.

On 2021-10-26 by Ronnie Hall

House built in 1967. These tiles are under lino and carpet downstairs. We're having a side wood floor done. Could these contain asbestos?

On 2021-10-23 by inspectapedia.com.moderator

@Cody,

That certainly could be an asbestos floor tile - but to make a more-informed guess please see the tips found at

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy questions to tell if your FLOOR probably contains asbestos - -

inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Floor-Test.php

On 2021-10-23 by Cody

Canadian here.
I'm happy to come across this site. This is my concern, see photo of the sub floor with brown tile 9"x 9". We uncovered this during our renovation.

On 2021-10-16 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod)

@Susie,

Thank you, that will help other readers by having confirmed chrysotile asbestos.

Can you tell us the U.K. building age or the flooring age?

On 2021-10-16 by Susie

@inspectapedia.com.moderator, I've just had the white vinyl tiles tested which look like that and they have confirmed crystallite

On 2021-08-14 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod)

@Josh smith,

That looks like it could be an asbestos floor tile - but to naked a more-informed guess please see

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy questions to tell if your FLOOR probably contains asbestos - - inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Floor-Test.php

On 2021-08-14 by Josh smith

Hello just wondering if you think these floor tiles that are underneath out old carpet are asbestos tiles they are 12" x 12" thank you

On 2021-08-06 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod)

@dbamford89,

That looks like it would be an asbestos floor tile - but be sure to see

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy questions to tell if your FLOOR probably contains asbestos - - https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Floor-Test.php

For advice on how to proceed, please take a look at these two articles

ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION - minimise the risk of asbestos hazards in U.K. buildings - https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Hazard-Reduction.php

ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE - a floor that is in poor condition or that must be removed - https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Floor-Removal.php

On 2021-08-06 by dbamford89

Please help. Is this asbestos. Just lifted an old wood floor and this is underneath. Thanks

Just lifted a worn out wood floor and this is underneath. Am concerned it's asbestos.! Any advice please

On 2021-07-11 by mak.church (mod)

@Gareth,
Also feel free to add more photos (one per comment but as many comments as you like) if you have a photo of a complete tile.

On 2021-07-11 by inspectapedia.com.moderator (mod)

@Gareth,

I think we're seeing, in your photo, a bit of asphalt-asbestos floor tile at the bottom of a dust bin. We'd be more-sure if we had even a little information about the building - see

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy questions to tell if your FLOOR probably contains asbestos - - live link given above on this page

For advice on how to proceed, please take a look at these two articles

ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION - minimise the risk of asbestos hazards in U.K. buildings

ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE - a floor that is in poor condition or that must be removed

live-links are found in the "Recommended Articles" near the bottom of the article on this page.

Don't hesitate to ask if any of that information raises other questions.

Thanks.

On 2021-07-11 by Gareth

Just started lifting an old ceramic tiled floor and found pink vinyl looking tiles underneath. I've got no idea whether they're asbestos or not, any advice appreciated.

On 2021-05-12 by (mod)

@Jon M,

That Marley flooring may contain asbestos but unfortunately we can't tell for certain from looking at it alone. You would need to have a sample tested.

From the article above we have this information about Marley flooring

Dating from the 1960s in the U.K., Marley Flooring was a thin, 1.3 mil flexible, roll-out, often reversible, vinyl or rubber based floor covering used for dance or athletic purposes.

That term, "Marley Floor" is still used, but the Marley Floors, Ltd. ceased operations in 1978. Marley's flooring was sold under the "Stageflor" brand, sold in the U.S. as "Stagestep" later Timestep, Dancestep, Quietstep.

On 2021-05-12 by Jon M

Hi I would very much appreciate your view as to whether the example Marley tiles are likely to contain asbestos. UK property built circa 1960.

30cm squared tiles. Some tiles have been damaged as in photo are these safe provided new underlay and carpets are laid on top? Best left alone? Cheers

On 2021-05-03 1 by (mod)

@Jon,

Both the floor tiles and the adhesive mastic are likely to contain asbestos.

On 2021-05-03 by Jon

Found these patterned tiles under our carpet and kitchen tiles. Measure 25cmx25cm (metric not Imperial?) And has a black adhesive underneath. The house was build in 1978.

On 2021-03-24 - by (mod) -

@Anonymous,

I would probably try to lift out whole sections of flooring, tile + floorboards - to treat as construction debris - as an effort to minimize dust.

On 2021-03-24 by Anonymous

thanks Dan, you're pretty spot on with the age. It's incredibly difficult to get up, but as I need to insulate under & the crawl space is too small I'm going to completely replace the floorboards! Thanks again for your help, thought they might be, and will make use of your guides

On 2021-03-23 by (mod) - asbestos in 9x9 UK Floor tiles from 1950s- 1960s

@Clive, that looks like 1950s flooring (you don't give house age), and if so it's likely to be an asphalt-asbestos product.

See the advice and procedures described at ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE - a floor that is in poor condition or that must be removed

https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Floor-Removal.php

On 2021-03-23 by Clive

Thoughts on if these are/could be asbestos?
Have quite a soft feel to the tile, size is 9x9, found under carpet in a property I've recently purchased (had a p3 mask on for that small bit that's been pulled up.
Need to insulate under the floorboards, so it does need to come up unfortunately.

On 2021-03-07 - by (mod) -

@Lucy Phillips,

I agree that you'd either treat the floor as presumed to contain asbestos, OR if faced with a costly demolition, test a sample.

In the U.K. you are not required to remove this floor; if it is sound and well-adhered, then the best approach is to cover it.

see ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION - minimise the risk of asbestos hazards in U.K. buildings

at https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Hazard-Reduction.php

On 2021-03-07 by Lucy Phillips

Pretty sure the creamy coloured tile contains asbestos. Not sure about the black one?

These have been applied to concrete slab with black mastic. Cream coloured ones stuck onto the black. House built in 1960 UK. Just needing a second opinion!

On 2020-12-16 by (mod)

Rebecca:

We cannot know with absolute certainty that your flooring does or does not contain asbestos without a lab test, but you can make a reasonable pretest "guess" by following the guide at

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy questions to tell if your FLOOR probably contains asbestos

On 2020-12-16 by rebecca

Hello, Can anyone tell me if they think these are asbestos, we have just found them in our 1960s Bungalow floor and ripped about 30 of them up. They dont look very blue in pics, but they were blue Thank you

On 2020-12-16 - by (mod) -

Greg

Given the age of the flat end construction and floor it would be prudent to treat the floor as presumed to contain asbestos. That's not something that deserves Panic. If a floor is generally in good condition the safest and most recommended approach is to leave it alone and covered with other flooring material.

On 2020-12-15 by Greg

Uncovered these black tiles in our living room after lifting carpet to fit new laminate flooring. Concerned they may contain asbestos, its an old council flat built around 1970 I believe. Any advice would be appreciated, thanks

On 2020-11-15 - by (mod) -

In the ARTICLE INDEX take a look at

ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE - a floor that is in poor condition or that must be removed - live link above.

On 2020-11-11 by Anonymous

Thanks, that's what I was assuming. Loads of fun!

On 2020-11-08 - by (mod) -

Yes Paul, those look like asphalt-asbestos floor tiles. Possibly 1950s.

On 2020-11-08 by Paul

Just uncovered these old vinyl tiles when I've taked the old lino and chipboard up. They're stuck down with resin. Just wondered if you think they're likely asbestos? I'm guessing 60s by the age of the house.

On 2020-11-01 - by (mod) -

Jonathan

I agree that the fibre backer on that sheet or roll flooring is not likely to contain asbestos; it is typically a plant-based material, jute or hemp;

However in some such flooring the upper layer of composite material providing the floor pattern or design may contain asbestos; fortunately that material is not normally friable.

On 2020-11-01 by Jonathan

I have just moved into a 1960s ex-La flat and have been carrying out some renovation.

I removed some modern laminate floor which uncovered some hessian backed Lino which had been laid in ‘rolls’. The hessian back has a small square pattern, is fibrous and obviously hessian brown coloured.

I have done a bit of research to determine the potential for ACM however I haven’t really come across anything that looks similar so unsure as to their potential.

Another room in the flat no longer has the flooring but does have remnant fibres bound by adhesive where the flooring has been. These fibres are very similar to hessian so assuming they are unlikely to comprise asbestos.

On 2020-10-31 by (mod) - 1973 10x10 floor tiles in the UK - Asbestos

It would be reasonable to treat that floor and mastic as presumed to contain asbestos, Nathan.

See details at ASBESTOS FLOORING IDENTIFICATION 1950's or LATER in the U.K.

where I'll move your photo and enquiry so as to invite helpful comments from other UK readers

On 2020-10-31 by Nathan

Hi, uk based house from c 1973 and I’ve found these 10x10 tiles everywhere! No visible makers mark but stuck down with a black bitumen smelling adhesive.

[Photo above]

On 2020-10-30 by (mod) - asbestos flooring in 1970s Sussex townhouse

Claudia

It's entirely possible and in fact probable that those floor tiles and perhaps the mastic adhesive contain asbestos. If the tiles are not broken and you're not shopping or grinding or making a Dusty mess the asbestos release Hazard into the air is probably quite low.

Nevertheless you really can't install new floor tiles or vinyl sheet flooring over loose, poorly adhered existing tiles. You need a sound base. That means removing loose tiles or laying subfloor down over the entire floor and putting the new flooring on top of that.

See the advice at

• ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION - minimise the risk of asbestos hazards in U.K. buildings
• ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE - a floor that is in poor condition or that must be removed

On 2020-10-30 by Claudia

Hello,
We recently moved into a 1970s terrace house in Sussex and are planning to renovate kitchen which still has original units. I'm very concerned about broken flooring which was like this when we moved in. Near the door I have covered with a floor mat (to avoid disturbing) but in some cases when I have hoovered the floor in other areas, the tiles have just lifted off the floor!

When it comes to renovating we plan to put down new tiled vinyl flooring tiles, not sure if this can be placed over old flooring as it is?


Please could you provide guidance and any safety precautions? I'm worried about using a vacuum in the kitchen after reading advice on site.
Thanks for your help

On 2020-09-07 - by (mod) -

Caitlin

The best advice from experts on minimizing the asbestos hazard from floor tiles are used to leave them in place and cover them over.

Since you're planning on putting down soundproofing an engineered wood floor it makes sense to leave the existing flooring in place. There will be no measurable hazard from that when it's covered.

On 2020-09-07 by Caitlin - tan asbestos floor tiles & tile mastic in a 1950s ex-Council Flat in London

Hello,
I've just moved into a 1950s ex-council flat in London. After removing the carpet we've discovered old floor tiles, some have cracked from pulling up the carpet.

I've read through some other posts and it seems likely that these would contain asbestos, but I was hoping you could help advise.

Our plan is to recover with sound proofing and engineered wood flooring.

There is around 65 square feet of this tiling so I would imagine it would be expensive to removed.

It looks like that tile has asphalt adhesive. I do have other pictures that show the adhesive and top view of tile, but I could only attached one image at a time.

Thanks in advance for you help!

On 2020-09-07 by Caitlin

On 2020-09-06 by (mod) - determine asbestos from edge view of 1970s UK floor tile?

Thanks for the great photo and question, David. From just a photo one can't assert that a tile contains asbestos, but from the general appearance and if the flooring itself is from the 1970s, then I'd treat that tile as presumed to contain asbestos.

On 2020-09-05 by David

Hello. I have a 1972-73 house and have these 9.8" 25mm tiles. And idea of content.

On 2020-08-31 by (mod) - Chrysotile Asbestos confirmed in these 1940s UK Floor Tiles

EmJ

Thank you for the helpful photo and UK Asbestos-containing floor tile report. I'll be sure to keep it with this article.

On 2020-08-26 by EmJ

Just to say that I had these tiles [shown just above] tested and they are Christoline / White asbestos. 1940s house but laid in the 60s/70s would be my guess.

On 2020-08-18 - by (mod) -

I think the floor may have been painted; I've seen that pattern but not in that color; I'd treat the floor as presumed to contain asbestos.

On 2020-08-18 1 by Dave78

Hi, just found this under the current floor of our new house. Bungalow build cica 1960. Checked through all photos on this, but cannot find anything similar. What worries me is that it appears to have had a right go at removing and then left it.

Size 12x12.
Red with raised / inbosed pattern.
Back of tile is red
Old adhesive white.

Please excuse grass cuttings

On 2020-08-05 - by (mod) -

I would treat the floor as presumed to contain asbestos - or test a sample. It's best to leave in place and cover-over.

On 2020-08-04 by Mark Robbins

Found these 9x9 inch brown floor tiles in the living room of a mid to late 1940's former council house in Beverley (East Yorkshire). Are they safe to lift prior to floor pour, or do they contain asbestos?

On 2020-07-30 1 - by (mod) -

Christina those floor tiles are likely to contain asbestos.

See ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION - minimise the risk of asbestos hazards in U.K. buildings


and

ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE - a floor that is in poor condition or that must be removed

On 2020-07-28 by Christina

Hi there, I am renovating a 1970's house and the builder thinks there maybe asbestos in this vinyl flooring . Please can you have a look and let me know the likely good please. We are in Manchester , UK. If there is is there anything we can do?
Thanks

On 2020-07-02 - by (mod) - possible asbestos in older UK floor tiles

Olly,

I don't recognize that particular floor tile pattern but from its probable age it'd be prudent to treat it as presumed to contain asbestos.

Keep dust to a minimum, damp wipe, HEPA vacuum, and you should be ok. You're not taking up the whole floor, right?

On 2020-07-02 by Olly C

Just taking up our kitchen floor to fix a leak in the pipe under the concrete -

we found the old floor underneath and started to take it up but have concerns due to the house being built in 1970 that it may contain asbestos. Can someone check the image and verify.

On 2020-06-24 - by (mod) - Contact Marley Flooring - current products

Apologies, Deborah, but common flooring patterns were produced by several manufacturers; unless we can see a label, stamp or other identifying mark I can't say for sure what's the brand of the flooring in your photo.

The flooring at the left in your photo does not look like a Marley Floor - it looks like a vinyl- or vinyl-asbestos floor tile.

For other readers:

Dating from the 1960s in the U.K., Marley Flooring was a thin, 1.3 mil flexible, roll-out, often reversible, vinyl or rubber based floor covering used for dance or athletic purposes.

That term, "Marley Floor" is still used, but the Marley Floors, Ltd. ceased operations in 1978. Marley's flooring was sold under the "Stageflor" brand, sold in the U.S. as "Stagestep" later Timestep, Dancestep, Quietstep.

Currently roll-out flexible "Marley" flooring is sold by -
Stagestep, Inc.
4701 Bath Street #46
Philadelphia, PA 19137

Toll-Free: 800-523-0960
Local Number: 215-636-9000
Fax: 267-672-2912
Email: custserv@stagestep.com (General Comments Only)
info@stagestep.com (Questions about Flooring or Floor Products)
see also https://www.stagestep.com/why-is-it-called-a-marley/

The company also has offices in Argentina, Canada Mexico, Singapore and the U.K.

On 2020-06-23 by deborah

Have unfortunately already taken the lower tiles up and disposed of them back in December and not put new floor down yet...do you think they might be Marley Tiles please? Thanks

 

On 2021-06-05 by mak.church (mod) - action when asbestos is suspected in older UK Floor Tiles - Staffordshire/ East Midlands

@Flowerpower,

When I see gray or white paper backing on old UK floor tiles or sheet flooring indeed I'm alert for possible asbestos hazards.

Probably panic is not necessary (and itself is bad for your health) for having torn up a couple of square feet of asbestos-suspect flooring.

Damp wipe, HEPA vac, and leave the flooring in place, covering it over; or if you must demolish it, and can't do so without creating a dusty mess, then have a sample tested for asbestos so as to have an idea just how much care needs to be taken for dust control.

Because popular floor patterns were made by more than one manufacturer, and because popular flooring patterns were produced across and past years when asbestos was a common ingredient, one cannot safely say, on a photo alone, whether or not a particular floor tile or sheet flooring pattern contains asbestos.

Short of having a sample of the flooring tested, you can make a reasonable *guess* at whether or not your floor contains asbestos by answering the few easy questions found at

DOES THIS FLOORING CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy steps that can help you make a reasonable guess at whether or not the floor you ask about contains asbestos.

https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Floor-Test.php

At the very least, if you can establish the date that the flooring was made or installed then, depending on the country where the flooring was made (and usually where it's installed) you can know if it's an asbestos-candidate.

If that leaves you with suggestions or questions do let me know.

As you may have seen, you can often find a match in the ID-library of asbestos flooring beginning

at ASBESTOS FLOOR TILE IDENTIFICATION - (floor tiles) https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Floor-Tile-Identification.php

ALSO

where there is quite a bit of loose, damaged flooring you might find the cover-over job easier if you lift out and bag for disposal the existing loose tiles.

Note that flooring mastic adhesives may also contain asbestos, also may not be particularly friable unless chopped, sawn, ground, etc.

That said, my OPINION is that for flooring that isn't adhered and can be easily rolled up and removed, basically intact, the actual hazard is probably little or less.

To understand the procedures that are involved see

ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Floor-Removal.php

ASBESTOS REMOVAL, WETTING GUIDELINES inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos_Wetting_Procedure.php

On 2021-06-05 by Flowerpower

Re floor tiles query - location is in Staffordshire/ East Midlands
Thanks!

Sorry can’t seem to add several pics in one post!
Don’t have measurements unfortunately.
Thanks again

More pics FYA. Colour is blue, whites, browns & greys.
Floor has no dpm so covering over a concern. Thanks again

Is this floor tile asbestos containing? Uncovered under laminate, then old Lino. 1930’s house in U.K. Is in the old cold store which is a step down to the main house. Same flooring in porch adjoining which was added later - possibly the 90’s. Is cold, smooth, porcelain like to touch. Possible damage where toilet was later (?) installed. Many thanks

On 2021-04-16 by (mod)

@Jen,

Yes it would be prudent to treat that floor as presumed to contain asbestos.

A piece or two that breaks off can be tossed out and the area damp-wiped, but if there is enough floor-break-up to be creating dust and debris you may need to give the floor more serious treatment.

At the Recommended Articles on this page please see the live links for

ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION - minimise the risk of asbestos hazards in U.K. buildings

ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE - for a floor that is in poor condition or that must be removed

On 2021-04-16 by Jen

Hi there, I was wondering if you could give me some advice. These tiles are all around my flat (60s/70s council flat in london). A lot of them are chipped/broken and stained. Could these contain asbestos? Thanks!

On 2020-12-24 by (mod)

Ronan

at ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION - minimise the risk of asbestos hazards in U.K. buildings

https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Hazard-Reduction.php

you'll see a reference to using a sealant coating to protect and stabilize the exposed tile mastic that, while not friable and so not an easy source of airborne asbestos, may indeed contain that material.

On 2020-12-24 by Ronan

Hi guys some abdice would be great please i recently took up a couple of broken tiles from where my nans washing manchine was as we are getting a new one and I wanted it to sit level after I took them up I noticed this black adhesive could this be something to worry about any comments would be appreciated thankyou.

On 2020-02-13 - by (mod) -

Hi Paul. Yes, Asbestos is likely in the floor tiles in your photo. [above]

Pull nails as needed and use damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming to control the Dust

Additional questions you can answer to help form a more solid guess are found at

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS

On 2020-02-13 by paul

Hi, I live in a 1950 built bungalow, although I believe it was later extended in 1970.

Under 1 carpet I discovered 9” tiles (see image), I was in the process of pulling up the carpet grippers, but it broke on extracting the nails, I decided against removing any further nails.

On 2019-12-25 - by (mod) -

Asbestos is likely in the floor tiles in your photo.

Additional questions you can answer to help form a more solid guess are found at

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS

See also ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION

On 2019-12-21 by Anonymous

Hi, would be grateful for advice please on the risk of asbestos in these floor tiles, and the wall coating, and ceiling polystyrene tiles please.

This is a ground-floor 1950s/60s maisonette in the UK.

On 2019-12-12 - by (mod) - cover the floor \with new material.

Yes, Katte. Best practice is to cover the floor \with new material.

What are the country and city where this floor is installed and

do you know the age of the building itself?

On 2019-12-12 by Kate Jones

Hi, I have discovered these tiles under some carpet tiles in our new kitchen. They are from the early 1950s I think. Do you think they may contain asbestos? If so do they need to be left covered?

On 2019-11-08 - by (mod) -

Carl

Certainly the lower layer of 9x9 floor tiles is a good candiate for containing asbestos; t's best to leave it in place and cover it over. That's safer and least costly; if you cannot avoid a dusty demolition then either treat the floor as containing asbestos or have a sample tested.

On 2019-11-08 by Carl Bristol

Great website and resource. Opportunity to post queries great for relative novice, before damaging myself or bank account.

Recently moved into a 1940s (47 Im told) House.

Getting lead water pipe replaced and wiring sorted, so uncovering floorboards in hall. Under two layers of carpets uncovered 9x9 inch tiles, stuck down with what looks like black tar (mastic).

Will likely need to remove to get floorboards up, to sort wiring, water, gas pipes etc.

The tiles run through from the hall into existing galley kitchen also, which will be torn up next year.

Based on pictures do these seem like asbestos tiles? And potentially the black adhesive.

Will start reading the website either way for what to do next.

Many thanks

On 2019-03-30 by Wendy farey

Eventually estuary housing kursal estate removed us and the 12X12 Armstrong tiles crumbling under foot and the disturbed sshphelt all screened over.

The furniture was ment to be removed but all kichen covered in brown dust they never removed the kicen food kettle toastrr ect they still will not show me the reports its discusting my health is bad and mentally worn down with the lies even MP WILL NOT GET INVOLVED. SO SOCIAL TENANTS DONT DIY YOUR OWN DEATH AS THIS IS ILKEGEAL AS GAR AS IM CONCERNED

On 2019-10-28 - by (mod) -

Forgive the delay Amanda, do update us on what your sister has done about dust cleanup.

I worry as do you that if the dust contains asbestos at any significant level it is hazardous and would need to be cleaned up using HEPA vacuums, damp wiping etc. NOT a typical household vacuum cleaner.

On 2019-10-24 by Amanda

My sister has recently moved into an old council flat, the floor tiles do contain asbestos and prior to her moving in they treated them somehow and left dust everywhere for her to clean up, is that safe and if so how can she clean it up,

she’s used a mop and damp cloth and hoovered numerous times and there still quite a bit left, the council have said they’ll contact the company to ask advice on what she can do to clean it up, do you have any advice for her?

On 2019-09-05 by (mod) -

Danielle

From their appearance (above and second photo below) I think those are two (or more) variations of asphalt-asbestos floor tile. Additional questions you can answer to help form a more solid guess are found at

DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/DIY-Asbestos-Floor-Test.php

The best approach is to leave such flooring in place and to cover it over with a new layer of material. Small areas of damage such as chips or holes can be filled with a floor leveling compound if necessary before covering the floor.

See also ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION https://inspectapedia.com/hazmat/Asbestos-Hazard-Reduction.php

On 2019-09-05 by Danielle

Hello I have tiles guessing anywhere from 60s to 90s era both the tiles and the floor underneath are breaking up would their be any chance of asbestos

On 2019-09-05 by Danielle eaves

Hello I have these tiles and they are breaking up as well as the floor underneath them please do they contain asbestos

On 2019-08-11 by (mod) -

Daniel:

don't panic as that itself is bad for your health. In the ARTICLE INDEX you'll find some suggestions for ASBESTOS FLOOR REMOVAL and ASBESTOS WETTING GUIDELINES - some of those steps are closing the barn door after the horse has run away to Wales, but damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming may still be in order.

You could also collect a tape sample of representative dust and have that examined by an asbestos test lab to see if there is a significant level of asbestos dust in your house dust; if so then added cleaning of such areas as the dust represents would be in order.

Search InspectApedia.com for DUST TAPE SAMPLE PROCEDURE and

for ASBESTOS TEST LABS for more help

On 2019-08-11 by Daniel

Hello

I’ve just completed the removal of old floor tiles in a 1960s house, just scraped them off with a tile scrapper a lot broke and I just brushed up the mess and banged them taking them to the tip. The man at the tip informed me that they would contain asbestos. I’m now panicking that myself and my family have been put at risk. What should I do to reduce my risks further. The floor is clear now.

On 2019-07-07 by Paul Robert

I had new carpet laid over thermoplastic asbestos containing tiles. Despite my protestations the carpet fitter nailed several grippers to the tiles and then due to error had to remove them. What is the risk of fibres being released?

On 2019-06-19 1 by (mod) - UK Floor Tiles containing chrysotile asbestos.

Adam

If those floor tiles are atop a concrete slab that is below outside grade level then we're probably seeing efflorescence - mineral salts - left behind from moisture or even a bit of water entry.

Search InspectApedia.com for EFFLORESCENCE to see details. That article series also includes dryout suggestions.

I'd like to hear just what your damp proofing course was going to involve.

On 2019-06-19 by AdamH1717

Recent bought a 3 bed semi detached house, circa 1940s. I have been made aware of the tiles in both downstairs living rooms containing chrysotile/asbestos.

We were due to have a damp proof course done in these rooms but now I am told this may disturb the tiles. My other concern is the white substance emerging between the tiles. Any idea as to what this is?

On 2019-04-26 by (mod) -

Corinne, those tiles resemble Armstrong asphalt asbestos floor tiles from the 1940s - If they are in good shape then the best procedure is to leave them alone and cover them over.

If you must demolish the floor or create a dusty mess you should either treat the floor as presumed to contain asbestos (articles on how-to are in this article series at this website) or have a sample tested. If you decide to test let me know the results as that will assist other UK readers.

On 2019-04-25 by Corinne

I've just pulled up the lino in the kitchen of my 1940s terrace and found these tiles. I think they might be armstrong asbestos tiles but I'm not sure. Are you able to confirm for me? They are very hard and cold to the touch. Ones cream the other brown, both with flecks if red and white.

IMAGE LOST by older version of Comments code - now fixed. Please re-post the image if you can. Sorry. Mod.

On 2019-03-15 by (mod) - Asbestos low risk but not zero in victorian home (1899) sheet flooring or linoleum rug

Rachael,

Regarding your two types of UK flooring (photo above),

you will want to read the asbestos (or usually not-asbestos) content discussion for antique linoleum and other "rugs" of the type in your photo (shown above) and to assume that the floor tiles do contain asbestos unless you have a sample tested.

See

• CONGOLEUM-NAIRN FLOOR TILES & LINOLEUM
• LINOLEUM & OTHER SHEET FLOORING - home
• SHEET FLOORING NON-ASBESTOS EXAMPLES
• SHEET FLOORING TYPE IDENTIFICATION

On 2019-03-15 by Rachael - victorian home (1899) with linoleum rug

Just bought a lovely Victorian ( built 1899) house, lifted the hall carpet and found these, set alarm bells off as my first thought is, these are asbestos, am I right?

On 2019-02-01 by (mod) - asbestos in 1950's asphalt asbestos floor tiles: Yep.

David - as you posted the same photo on another page our answer remains:

That floor looks like a 1950's Armstrong Asphalt-Asbestos floor tile. Is your home in a U.S. city? or in the UK?

On 2019-02-01 by Mr D - David

I bought my house in 2017 and noticed that there is these tiles under all the flooring in the house and they are fully visible under the staircase cupboard. Would you recognise these tiles. The house was built in the 1950's

On 2019-01-06 by Mr E

Thanks that's really useful. I've had a read of the hazard assessment and based on what I've read the risks appear somewhat reduced but still present - I guess until the testing's done I won't know for sure.

Either way, I'll set about damp wiping and cleaning up as best possible.. Regarding the new flooring - the intention is to use laminate flooring in the hallway and carpet the front room. Thanks again for the info.

On 2019-01-06 by (mod) - manage asbestos-containing flooring to be left in place

Right, so use damp wiping or HEPA vacuuming if you want to be thorough about cleaning up dust that (might) contain asbestos.

I too like the fill-in the gaps approach if we are going to cover the floor with vinyl sheet flooring. If you were going to install an engineered or laminate floor then those depressions probably would be of no import.

See ASBESTOS FLOORING LEFT IN PLACE

also

See ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION

ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD LEVEL ASSESSMENT might also be of use.

On 2019-01-06 by Mr E

Hi, thanks for the info. I wasn't expecting a definitive response, but any information is useful.

I have absolutely no intention of removing the floor, instead I was looking to maybe try and "fill" the various gaps where the broken bits of tile have previously been removed as new flooring is going over the top.

I'm more worried that previously removed chipped tile edges have been brushed over during cleanup and that this might have brushed dust into the air. I'll have a read of the article you posted, and go from there.

On 2019-01-06 by (mod) -

E

I can't give a reliable yes-or-no answer to asbestos content in floor tiles of unknown age; you would have to have a sample tested by an asbestos test lab - for

which ASBESTOS TESTING LAB LIST may be of help.

However you can minimize risk by doing what you can to minimize dust. Just breaking a floor tile might not release much dust but chopping, sanding, sawing, or demolishing to remove such a floor would of course be a different matter.

In this article series you'll see procedures for minimizing hazards by wetting and proper removal procedures if you have to remove more of the flooring.

Generally the best, safest, and most-recommended approach is to leave an asbestos-suspect floor in place, covering it over with new floor covering.

If you have to demolish the floor (which I suspect you don't) you'd want to have a sample tested.

On 2019-01-06 by Mr E - more UK floor tiles that look like the ones in the photo below

I've been fixing up a relative of mines house, and prepping it to have new flooring. She has floor tiles in the front room and hallway that are 25cm (almost 10") that previously had carpet grippers.

The grippers were pulled up a long time ago (years ago, and not by me) and in doing so most of the edges of the tiles were damaged (cracked and broke off).

The tiles look almost exactly like the image posted by Edward further down (although the size differs) and having discovered only recently the whole asbestos in tiles was a thing, I am obviously concerned.

Any idea if these size of tiles are problematic? I don't know the age of the house, but my relative's been in that house since 1995, so the tiles have been there since at least then.

On 2019-01-06 by (mod) - these UK floor tiles did not contain asbestos but the tile mastic adhesive did

Edward

Thank you very much for the update - I'll be sure to keep that information together with the photos as that will certainly help other readers.

On 2019-01-06 by Edward

Hi, I posted a photo [shown here] (Dec 16, 2018) of my tiles. I have since had them tested by Pass(UK)Ltd.

I also had the black mastic/adhesive tested too. The tiles tested negative for asbestos, but the mastic tested positive.

On 2019-01-04 by (mod) - some tile adhesives is contained asbestos

You're correct that some tile adhesives is contained asbestos.

The adhesive is not normally friable. It seems to me at this juncture the best approach would be too damp wipe or HEPA vac any dust and install your new layer of flooring.

On 2019-01-04 by Bob murphy

Hello , I have recently removed Marley tiles from my 1970's bungalow not knowing they contained asbestos!

They came up easily but for ease of disposal I broke them up and bagged them. The remaining film of bitumen adhesive has been exposed for approx a month waiting for new tiled flooring.

I have since found put that this possibly contains asbestos as well? The tile colours were dark grey and an orange marble effect( both 9x9) can't undo what's done but am I still at risk?

On 2019-01-01 07:46:49.084197 by Wendy farey

@Edward,
I have same disturbed all threw place had a big fight estuary housing yes confirmed has to be removed properly by company even though we still living in it 6months it's discusting to be fighting this to be told that they are only doing it as me mental health .no it's they only care about rent !

On 2018-12-17 by (mod) - when to assume UK floor tiles contain asbestos

Edward

Unless you have reason to think those floor tiles went in after 1999 you should treat that as presumed to contain asbestos

On 2018-12-16 by Edward -12" Floor tiles, 1978 building, London England

Hi, I took up some tiles, now I'm worried they might contain asbestos.

They are roughly 12 inches square, and greyish colour. The building was built in 1978 in London, England.

Here's a photo, do you recognise the tile? Does it contain asbestos? Thank you very much.

On 2018-12-15 by (mod) -

Gemma,

Sorry but just based on a tile pattern alone one cannot assert that it contains asbestos.

Popular floor styles we're produced over many years including earlier versions with asbestos and later versions without.

If you're in the UK and your floor was manufactured or installed before 1999 it would be prudent to treat it as if it contains asbestos or to have a sample tested.

I can add that I have in fact seen that for style pattern among older floor tiles that did contain asbestos. But as I said we don't know the age or even location of yours.

On 2018-12-15 by Gemma

Can you tell if this kitchen tile contains asbestos?

On 2018-12-06 by Wendy farey

They said it was conformed aspestosos not the tiles the ashphelt but they said they would remove tiles and scream floor in a day and by 7pm we could be back in there they are talking rubbish and the ashphelt is dis turned there covering themselfs it's all to much to bare as its in every room and more

On 2018-11-29 by (mod) - Southend on Sea asbestos suspect floor tile

Re-posting correspondence rec'd by private email:

Anonymous said:

Just to send u photos of 3 Romany steps ,Beresford Road, Southend on Sea ,SS1 2TU

These [asbestos suspect floor tiles are at ] Woodgrange Estate kursal .estuary housing charity!

Floors crumbling dust on skin 4 months left me disabled and falling to help 12x12 Armstrong ashphelt .

its discusting .how long can we keep living like this I'm disabled.

Rec'd by private email 2018/11/29

Reply:

If that Armstrong 12x12 tile flooring was installed in the UK (as your address indicates) prior to 1999, then you should treat it as presumed to contain asbestos.

The least expensive and safest and most-recommended approach is to leave such flooring alone, in place, perhaps damp-wiping any loose debris, then cover the floor over with just about any new flooring material: vinyl-sheet flooring, carpeting over padding, laminate flooring, etc.

Because your floor has some areas of missing tiles you'd need to either fill in that space with a thin spread filler before installing sheet flooring, or install a thicker new floor than vinyl sheet.

On 2018-11-28 by (mod) - date of UK floor tile asbestos ban

Since the UK didn't ban all asbestos containing floor tiles until 1999 that formed the basis for my advice.

Yes if it's not crumbling I'd just damp wipe, and then either install new flooring overtop or alternatively consider an expoxy floor paint.

On 2018-11-28 by Chris

It's solid colour rather than patterned, though the previous carpet underlay has left a dusty outline on it! Only a few chips around the edges where damaged carpet gripper has been pulled up.

As it's not crumbling I'm guessing best to lay new flooring over?

On 2018-11-28 by (mod) -

Chris,

Unfortunately in your photo I can't see a pattern or anything that I can identify two specific manufacturer of flooring.

I think it would be reasonable to treat that floor as presumed to contain asbestos.

You could have a sample tested if you're facing a costly demolition job.

How much of the floor area is actually damaged like shown in your photo? That might help decide on a course of action. As perhaps you know from reading this article series the best approach is to leave such a foreign place and cover it with new material.

On 2018-11-28 by Chris

Ive just purchased a house that finished construction in 1985.

The solid ground floor is covered with dark red/brown non-patterned 30cm X 30cm tiles and some are chipped where carpet gripper has been installed.

Each tile is only a couple of mm thick

On 2018-11-02 by (mod) - would my UK floor tiles made in 2002 contain asbestos?

Lori,

In the U.K. Manufacture and supply of all asbestos was banned by the end of 1999.

On 2018-11-02 by Lori

I am currently chipping of old vinyl tiles which were manufactured in 2002 and underneath are what appears to concrete tiles.

Would these contain asbestos? And am I safe to continue chipping the vinyl off the top? Many thanks

On 2018-10-24 by (mod) - Oxfordshire asbestos floor tile

Although I have seen similar flooring in the UK, including right in Oxfordshire, I don't know that exact pattern so I cannot say for certain, Thomas, if your 29cm floor tile contains asbestos, but from its appearance and age I would presume that it does.

I see one cracked tile in the photo upper left. But if the flooring is basically intact, and if there is no inescapable requirement to remove it, the safest and most-economical approach is to leave it in place and cover it over with new flooring material.

I'm being cautious in my advice. As we note above

Crocidolite asbestos was widely used both in small powder particle form as a filler and in longer fibrous form as a strength reinforcement in both asphalt and vinyl floor tiles in many countries including the U.K. up to 1985.

On 2018-10-24 by Thomas

Hello,
any chance you could tell if this is an aspestos tile? House was build 1970/80s in Oxfordshire they have no pattern and are very thin.
Many thanks

On 2018-10-01 by (mod) - floor tiles in the UK, unknown age, asbestos test recommen ded

Sorry Tom but that's not a floor tile I recognize.

I would have a sample tested IF you have to perform a messy demolition; otherwise treat it as presumed to contain asbestos and cover it with new flooring.

at ASBESTOS FLOORING IDENTIFICATION

we have additional suggestions on how to make a smart guess at whether or not flooring contains asbestos.

Let me know if I can be of additional help.

On 2018-10-01 by tom booth

Hi,
Could anyone help with information regarding possible Asbestos containing tiles.

I have no idea about the age of the tiles, the house was built in 1890 and these are laid on concrete floor in a bathroom covered with a lino, possible 1980 era . 9 by 9

regards Tom

On 2018-09-30 by (mod) - check remaining dust for high levels of asbestos

While it's likely that some UK floor tiles from the 60's don't have asbestos in their composition, it would be prudent to treat the floor in your photo as presumed to contain asbestos until you have a sample tested.

As now the event is over and done-with what remains is a careful cleanup using damp wiping and HEPA vacuuming if dust from the job remains.

Before doing that you might want to collect a sample of settled dust using clear adhesive tape, and have that screened for asbestos.

That can tell you how much additional cleaning is needed.

See this DUST SAMPLING PROCEDURE

On 2018-09-30 07:36:31.795577 by Catherine

Had central heating pipes put in floor for which they used power tools for and unknowingly we have all likely been exposed to asbestos dust. Only realised once I had a chap come round to measure up for hard flooring.

The place was covered in dust after they had ground out floor. Please see photos of hall and my kitchen floor and advise on how likely it is that they contain asbestos. House was built in 1966. Also what I do if we have been exposed.

Will have to let plumber know of likelihood of exposure also.

On 2018-09-18 by (mod) - some risk of asbestos flooring in homes built right at the time of the ban

Ryan

I'm sorry to have to equivocate, but I must.

Your house was built right at the end of the era when, in the U.S. (if that's your location), manufacturers were ceasing the use of asbestos in floor tiles and sheet flooring.

It would be prudent, then, to either assume that the floor contains asbestos or, if you face a significant demolition cost, use a test lab to have a sample checked.

If there is no significant damage to the floor it's safest and least-costly to leave it in place, covering it over with new flooring.

On 2018-09-18 by Ryan

My house was built in 1983, the first time the carpet as been up in a few years, a tile I starting to break?

Do you think these will contain asbestos?

On 2018-03-07 by (mod) - asbestos release from luggage wheel gouges, Manchester Airport Terminal?

Thanks Emanuel, for the interesting question.

If the luggage wheel marked the floor leaving material on the floor then the plastic wheel may itself be the softer of the two - that's the more common situation.

It's also possible that your luggage wheels marred a wax coating atop the actual floor surface.

The floor tiles in the Manchester airport could contain asbestos if the flooring was installed in or before 2000.

The Manchester airport certainly has grown and been renovated several times since it opened in 1911. Terminal #2 opened in 1993.

A major extension to Terminal #3 opened in 1998.

I did not find public records of more-detailed and more limited renovations that might have replaced the flooring, though you could certainly ask the airport management that question.

In any event It's doubtful that your luggage wheels created a detectable airborne asbestos hazard in the airport.

On 2018-03-07 by Emanuel

Hi, I was in UK recently, and in Manchester Airport my luggage wheel stop spinning and was dragging through the floor for a a few seconds.

I noticed that it marked the floor - since the wheel is plastic I assume the floor material was softer than than the wheel.

Can the floor tiles contain asbestos? Attached is an image with the type of floor.

These are the different types of floors in the Terminal area where I walked by. It had a sort of blueish white look. Thanks

...

Continue reading  at ASBESTOS FLOORING IDENTIFICATION 1950's or LATER in the U.K, topic home, or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX.

Or see these

Recommended Articles

• ASBESTOS FLOOR TILE PHOTO ID REQUESTS - topic home,
• ASBESTOS FLOOR TILE IDENTIFICATION COLOR KEY
• ASBESTOS FLOORING HAZARD REDUCTION - minimise the risk of asbestos hazards in U.K. buildings
• ASBESTOS FLOORING REMOVAL GUIDE - a floor that is in poor condition or that must be removed
• ASBESTOS TESTING LAB LIST
• DUST SAMPLING PROCEDURE to collect a sample of settled dust to have tested for asbestos
• DOES THIS FLOOR CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy questions to tell if your FLOOR probably contains asbestos -
• DOES THIS MATERIAL CONTAIN ASBESTOS? - 5 easy questions to tell if a BUILDING MATERIAL probably contains asbestos -
• FLOOR TILE / SHEET FLOORING PHOTO GUIDES
• U.K. ADVICE for POSSIBLE-ASBESTOS FLOORING
• U.K. ASBESTOS REGULATIONS
• U.K. ASBESTOS FLOOR TILE COMPOSITION
• U.K. ASBESTOS FLOORING IDENTIFICATION 1950's or LATER in the U.K
• U.K. FLOOR TILES AFTER 1985 BEFORE 2000
• U.K. FLOOR TILES 9x9" 1985 NOT ASBESTOS

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