Asbestos vinyl flooring is a type of flooring that contains asbestos fibers within its composition. It was originally used in the 1970s and 1980s, but has since been discontinued due to the health risks associated with inhaling asbestos particles. In this article, we will discuss the different types of asbestos vinyl flooring, how to identify it, and what to do if you suspect that you may have asbestos vinyl flooring in your home.
Types of Asbestos Vinyl Flooring
There are two main types of asbestos vinyl flooring: vinyl asbestos tile (VAT) and vinyl asbestos sheet flooring. VAT is usually composed of 9”x9” tiles with a paper backing. It often has a design pattern printed on the surface, and the paper backing often has a pattern as well. Vinyl asbestos sheet flooring is a continuous sheet of material that is cut to fit the size of the room. It is often installed over a layer of asphalt adhesive. Both types of asbestos vinyl flooring are generally composed of a vinyl material that has asbestos fibers mixed into it.
Identifying Asbestos Vinyl Flooring
It can be difficult to tell if you have asbestos vinyl flooring in your home, as it looks similar to other types of vinyl flooring. To identify it, you should look for the following:
- The flooring should have a paper or felt backing
- It should have a 9”x9” tile size
- It should have a pattern printed on the surface
- It should have a layer of asphalt adhesive underneath it
If you suspect that you have asbestos vinyl flooring in your home, you should contact a qualified asbestos inspector to confirm. It is important to note that asbestos vinyl flooring is not dangerous unless it is disturbed, so if you do have it, you should not attempt to remove it yourself.
Health Risks of Asbestos Vinyl Flooring
Asbestos fibers are known to be hazardous when inhaled, and can lead to serious health complications. As asbestos vinyl flooring is composed of asbestos fibers, it can pose a serious health risk if it is disturbed and the fibers become airborne. This can happen if the flooring is damaged or disturbed, or if it is removed incorrectly. Exposure to asbestos can lead to serious respiratory illnesses, including asbestosis and mesothelioma.
What to Do If You Have Asbestos Vinyl Flooring
If you suspect that you have asbestos vinyl flooring in your home, it is important to contact a qualified asbestos inspector. They can confirm whether or not you have asbestos vinyl flooring and advise you on the best course of action. Generally, if the flooring is in good condition and is not being disturbed, it is best to leave it in place. However, if the flooring is damaged or disturbed, it should be removed by a qualified asbestos removal specialist.
Conclusion
Asbestos vinyl flooring was commonly used in the 1970s and 1980s, but has since been discontinued due to the health risks associated with asbestos fibers. If you suspect that you may have asbestos vinyl flooring in your home, it is important to contact a qualified asbestos inspector to confirm. If the flooring is in good condition, it is best to leave it in place, but if it is damaged or disturbed, it should be removed by a qualified asbestos removal specialist.
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