How To Remove Asbestos Tiles From Basement Floor In Devon

Asbestos has been widely used in building and construction in the past, especially during the late 19th century and up until the mid-1980s. It is commonly found in buildings built before 1990 in products such as floor tiles, insulation, and roofing materials. But with the known health risks linked to asbestos exposure, it's essential to remove it from our properties as soon as possible.

If you own an old property in Devon or anywhere in South West England, there's a good chance that you may have asbestos-containing floor tiles in your basement. In this guide, well provide information on safely removing asbestos tiles from basement floors in Devon.

Who We Are

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is an asbestos removal company in Devon, South West England. We specialize in helping homeowners and businesses remove asbestos materials safely and cost-effectively. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we have the expertise and knowledge to handle all types of asbestos removal projects.

Our phone number is 01962 458066, and our email is [email protected]. You can also find more information about our services on our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk.

Understanding Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that's been widely used in construction due to its insulating properties and affordability. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos can result in serious health risks, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Therefore, it's essential to handle asbestos-containing materials with care.

Asbestos can be found in a variety of building materials, including floor tiles, insulation, roofing, and pipes. Unfortunately, asbestos-containing materials may not be easily identified, which is why it's critical to have a professional inspection.

In Devon, particularly in buildings constructed before 1990, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) could be present. If you plan on renovating an old property, you need to hire an asbestos expert to identify and have the material removed safely.

Asbestos Floor Tiles

Asbestos floor tiles were commonly installed in residential and commercial properties between 1920 to the 1980s. They were popular because of their durability, fire-resistant properties, and affordability.

If you're unsure whether your basement floor tiles contain asbestos, it's essential to seek expert assistance. A certified asbestos inspector can collect samples of the tiles and have them analyzed in a laboratory.

If you discover the tiles contain asbestos, you can either hire professionals to remove them or complete the process yourself as a homeowner. However, we'd recommend leaving it to the experts to avoid the risk of asbestos exposure.

Safe Removal Of Asbestos Floor Tiles

When it comes to removing asbestos-containing materials, it's vital to follow safety guidelines to prevent asbestos exposure. Asbestos fibers can easily become airborne, which can be inhaled and ingested, leading to severe health risks.

Here are a few steps to follow when removing asbestos floor tiles from your basement floor:

Step 1: Clear the Work Area

Before starting the removal process, ensure the work area is cleared of all objects and furniture. Seal off the work area with plastic sheeting, and use duct tape to ensure a tight seal.

Step 2: Put on Protective Gear

Put on approved protective gear, including disposable coveralls, safety goggles, a respirator or mask, and gloves.

Step 3: Wet The Floor

Asbestos tiles are more dangerous when they are dry and brittle. Therefore, it's essential to wet the tiles using a low-pressure spray of water mixed with a surfactant. This mixture will help suppress dust, making it safer for you to work.

Step 4: Remove The Tiles

Asbestos tiles are quite fragile and can easily break apart, releasing asbestos fibers into the air. To minimize breakage, use a floor scraper to lift the tiles gently. Handle the tiles carefully and avoid dropping them.

Place the tiles immediately in asbestos waste bags, which are marked or labelled appropriately, and tie them securely.

Step 5: Clean the Area

After removing all the tiles, use a damp cloth or mop and dispose of it immediately in asbestos waste bags. Ensure that you don't sweep, dust, or vacuum any remaining debris to avoid releasing asbestos fibers into the air.

Dispose of all the asbestos-containing waste according to local regulations.

Conclusion

Removing asbestos tiles from your basement floor is essential to ensure your family's health and safety. If you discover that your floor tiles contain asbestos, it's vital to hire professionals such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon to remove them safely.

We recommend that you avoid removing asbestos-containing materials yourself because of the risks involved. For more information on our asbestos removal services, call us on 01962 458066, or visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk.