Flooring Asbestos Testing

Asbestos Testing For Flooring

There are many flooring manufacturers that have used (and still use) asbestos in flooring products. Even if you confirm that the manufacturer of your old flooring is not on this list, your flooring could still contain asbestos. It is typically recommended to obtain proper asbestos testing prior to any flooring renovation project.

Some common manufacturers of asbestos-containing flooring materials include:

American Biltrite
Amtico Floors
Armstrong World Industries

Cogoleum Corporation
GAF Corporation
Synkoloid Company

Suspect Flooring Products May Include:

Linoleum
Sheet Vinyl
Vinyl Backing
9 x 9 VCT Tile
12 x 12 VCT Tile
Engineered Flooring
Flooring Glue
Floor Leveler
Tile with Grout
Carpet with Glue
Ceramic Flooring
Concrete
Terrazzo

Non-Suspect Flooring Materials:

Rubber
Cork
Natural Stone

Aggressive Removal Methods May Cause Fiber Release

Aggressive removal methods should be minimized. When aggressive removal methods are used, asbestos may be disturbed, also known as a fiber release.

Asbestos fibers in the air can move into other living areas of the project unknowingly. When removing flooring materials, avoid aggressive methods such as:

Grinding
Sanding
Cutting

Asbestos Testing for Health Concerns?

There are several regulations, such as the EPA Clean Air Act and the Colorado Air Pollution Prevention and Control Act, that govern how asbestos-containing material should be identified and properly handled. These regulations seek to prevent serious health risks to workers and the public. Asbestos is known to have long term health affects and should be taken with precaution when starting any new construction project.

Why Would Flooring Materials Contain Asbestos?

In the past, asbestos was used to strengthen floor tiles and vinyl, and to provide fire- and heat-resistance. When vinyl sheet flooring or floor tiles are properly installed and in good repair, the vinyl binds the asbestos, preventing its release – even flooring that contains asbestos fibers is considered safe when it’s intact. However, ripping up the old flooring can lead to dangerous asbestos exposure, as well as stiff fines.

A Closer Look at Asbestos Release Risks

Cutting, sanding or disturbing damaged, decaying flooring can result in the release of asbestos. If inhaled or swallowed, over time the fibers can cause serious illnesses such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.

The most dangerous of these flooring products is asbestos-backed vinyl sheet flooring. This flooring was made in large pieces and typically cut to the size of the room to be laid as one piece. The asbestos backing on this type of flooring is friable, or easily broke up. The fibers may be released into the air if the material is disturbed or damaged.

Flooring Asbestos Testing FAQs

Asbestos can be found in vinyl flooring, floor tiles, popcorn ceilings, HVAC ducts, shingles, siding, and more. The only certain way to know if building materials contain asbestos is to sample each material individually.

EnvioCore can identify suspect building materials and collect appropriate samples as required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). We then provide a detailed report that outlines the lab findings. This report provides the information necessary for you to apply for any necessary building permits and keep your project moving forward.

What Is Your Flooring Project?

If you’re considering replacing old flooring, call EnvioCore today. We will help you find out what you’re dealing with before you risk exposing anyone to the dangers of asbestos fibers.