How To Remove Asbestos Mastic From Concrete In Devon

Asbestos was a widely-used building material in the 70s and 80s. Unfortunately, it has been discovered that asbestos fibers can be harmful to human health, causing lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. That's why it's essential to remove asbestos from your property, especially if you're living in the area where it was commonly used.

If you're living in Devon or South West England, Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help you with the removal of asbestos. We're a company that specializes in removing asbestos from homes, buildings, and other structures. In this article, we will discuss how to remove asbestos mastic from concrete in Devon.

What Is Asbestos Mastic?

Asbestos mastic is a type of adhesive or glue that contains asbestos fibers. It was commonly used to install linoleum flooring in the 70s and 80s, making it a potential health hazard in older homes.

The problem with asbestos mastic is that it can easily break apart, releasing asbestos fibers into the air. If you're planning to remove linoleum flooring, especially in older homes or buildings, it's crucial to check for asbestos mastic.

Tools You'll Need To Remove Asbestos Mastic

Before starting the removal process, make sure to have the necessary tools to ensure a safe and efficient job. Here are the tools you'll need:

• Protective gear such as a respirator, gloves, and coverall
• Floor scraper or putty knife
• Chemical solvent such as water, soap, and TSP (trisodium phosphate)
• Heat gun or infrared heater

How To Remove Asbestos Mastic From Concrete

Removing asbestos mastic from concrete is a challenging task that requires proper tools, equipment, and safety precautions. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1. Prepare The Area

Start by preparing the area by removing any furniture, fixtures, or appliances that may get in the way of the removal process. Cover any vents, ducts, or openings with plastic sheets to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers in the air. Also, seal any doorways and windows with plastic sheets and duct tape.

Step 2. Put On Protective Gear

Wear a respirator, gloves, and coveralls to avoid inhaling asbestos fibers and minimize skin contact. Asbestos fibers can be harmful to human health, so it's essential to take safety measures.

Step 3. Soften The Mastic

Using a chemical solvent such as TSP can soften the mastic, making it easier to remove. Mix the TSP with warm water and apply it to the mastic using a paintbrush. Let it sit for around 30 minutes or as directed on the label.

Step 4. Scrape The Mastic

After letting the TSP solution sit, use a floor scraper or putty knife to scrape the mastic gently. Avoid using force to prevent damaging the concrete. As you scrape the mastic, the TSP solution may become gray or black, indicating the presence of asbestos fibers.

Step 5. Apply Heat

If the mastic is still difficult to remove, apply heat using a heat gun or an infrared heater. Be sure to wear protective gear and avoid applying too much heat as it may release asbestos fibers into the air.

Step 6. Peel The Mastic

After softening the mastic sufficiently, start peeling it off the concrete using a floor scraper or putty knife. Keep in mind that asbestos mastic can be fragile, so be careful not to break it apart during the removal process.

Step 7. Clean The Area

After removing the mastic, make sure to clean the area thoroughly using a HEPA vacuum cleaner. Sweep the area and mop it using water and soap to remove any remaining dust and debris.

Hiring Professionals

Removing asbestos mastic from concrete can be a complicated task that requires proper training, equipment, and safety measures. If you're not confident about performing the removal yourself, it's best to hire professionals like Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon.

Our team has the expertise, tools, and safety measures to remove asbestos mastic from your property safely and efficiently. We follow strict guidelines set by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to ensure that our clients are safe from asbestos exposure.

Conclusion

Removing asbestos mastic from concrete can be challenging, especially if you don't have the right tools and safety precautions. That's why we recommend hiring professionals like Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon to ensure a safe and efficient removal process.

If you're residing in Devon or South West England and require asbestos removal services, contact us at 01962 458066, or email us at [email protected]. We'll be happy to assist you with a free quote and a consultation. Visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information.