Many homes have Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT); above or beneath hardwood and tile flooring. These pliable vinyl tiles may look harmless enough, but VCT can contain cancer-causing asbestos. Particularly for VCT installed before 1984, the risk of asbestos makes it dangerous for homeowners to attempt tile removal on their own. Instead, you should hire an expert to remove VCT from your home.
Why can’t you remove the tiles yourself?
In addition to containing asbestos in the tile itself, VCT often have asbestos in the adhesive, as well. Rather than diminishing over time, the asbestos in these tiles and adhesive can become even stronger as the years go by. The removal process releases asbestos into the air, making it dangerous to be in the vicinity while removal is underway. The substances used to remove the tiles are caustic and can cause health problems among people exposed to these materials for an extended time period.
How do experts remove VCT tiles?
Depending on the age and condition of the tiles, experts may use a variety of removal techniques including solvents, scrapers, heaters, and possibly grinders. Most removals occur in two stages: removal of the tiles themselves, followed by removal of the adhesive. A tile removal expert can advise you on which techniques are necessary to remove VCT from a particular location.
Are there any risks to the adjacent flooring?
Because the tile removal process requires complete eradication of asbestos, there may be risk of damage to the underlying flooring, particularly if it is wood. Floor scrapers may create scratches in wood surfaces, and solvents may damage the finish of underlying stone layers. While there is a risk of damage to the substrate, the risk of health damage from asbestos is far greater. A tile removal expert can advise you on the potential damage depending on your unique circumstances.
It can be unsettling to learn that your home contains a potentially dangerous substance like asbestos. However, VCT removal expert can walk you through the removal process and help you literally breathe easier in your own home.
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