I sold a home recently that had a finished basement floor covered in linoleum squares. The home inspector informed the buyer that the tiles might have asbestos. It became an issue in the sale, but was resolved with the help of a professional contractor. Here is some useful information in the event this type of flooring is present in a home you own or want to purchase.
Asbestos Tile
Do you own an older home with linoleum floor tiles? Maybe you have a finished basement playroom tiled in linoleum squares? Or perhaps you have an old floor in a bath or kitchen? In homes built after 1940, it was common to see these tiles used in in basements, baths, and kitchens. Unfortunately, in many cases the tiles contain asbestos - a potential health issue.
How to determine:
For under $100 you can have an asbestos test done to your floor tiles. At the time of sampling, ask your contractor if the floor is in an acceptable condition to overlay with another type of flooring, or if the tiles are so loose or damaged that removal is the only safe method. This way you will know which course of action is best, should the testing reveal asbestos. Make sure to have both the tile and the mastic tested.
Cost to remove:
It isn't as expensive as you might think. The estimate for removal of tile and mastic in the case of the house I sold was under $2,000. A professional contractor will create a barrier to prohibit transfer of dust created during removal, as well as create a negative air environment using a HEPA filter. At the end of the job, an independent lab will do air quality testing to prove that the asbestos has not become airborne in the home.
Here is a web link with detailed photos and easy-to-understand information about identifying and dealing with asbestos tile: http://www.inspectapedia.com/sickhouse/asbestoslookB.htm
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