[stacy3477]

Hi,

We are hoping the install wood laminate in our family room (the house was built in 1979). When we pulled up the carpet, we found old tile and was told that it is most likely asbestos tile. The carpet tacks were nailed in pretty deep. Should we be concerned about pulling up the old carpet tacks?

Thanks for any advice,
Stacy

 

[Scuba_Dave]

I would have a piece of the old tile tested 1st before worrying about it.
Anytime you disturb asbestos & it become airborne there is a problem

 

[Bud Cline]

Here we go again - SOUND THE ALARM!!!!!!!!

Pull the tacks that are in the path of the new installation and be done with it. Don't eat the tacks or any of the tile crumbs that may result.

Testing for asbestos in this case is a waste of your time and your money, It's there, move on.

 

[Scuba_Dave]

Knowing if there is or is not asbestos is not being an alarmist
Why worry if it is NOT asbestos ?
They do not know ITS there
When you ASSUME you make an...

 

[Bud Cline]

The house was built in '79. Anything prior to the mid '80's was more likely than not to contain asbestos, that's just the way it was done back then.

If you don't screw with it - no harm will come from it. Don't disturb it and don't lose any sleep over it, it's everywhere. Cover it up and forget it. It is only when you try to remove it that it could pose any real hazard and special measures must be taken.

 

[rusty baker]

Back in the 80's the EPA advised us to cover it up and forget it. Too many people have the "chicken little" syndrome.

 

[Bud Cline]

Back in the 80's the EPA advised us to cover it up and forget it. Too many people have the "chicken little" syndrome.

Exactly correct. Asbestos is in all kinds of things and people come in close proximity to asbestos every day. It is in public buildings and public and private schools and hotels and motels and homes and offices and industry. It was used extensively in years past and still exists today.

When it comes to flooring it is best to remove it in some cases (but not always) and there are methods for its safe removal, handling and disposal. If there is no reason to disturb it - DON'T. But don't have a heart attack just because you know it is there.:wink:

Asbestos is kinda' the "Don't Ask - Don't Tell" element of the flooring industry.