November 10th, 2011 by writer

Asbestos tiles may be found in floor and ceiling tiles made of vinyl, asphalt and rubber. Tiles that were manufactured before 1981 may contain asbestos, as well as the following tile material: Paper backing on tiles, Adhesives used to install tile, Linoleum floor tile, 9-inch and 12- inch floor tiles

Vinyl floor tiles that contained asbestos were manufactured from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymers and were used in homes due to the tile’s resistance to abrasion, moisture, oil, grease and acids.

Floor and ceiling tiles that are whole and intact are not considered hazardous, as the asbestos fibers are bound inside the tile. Tiles may emit the fibers if the material has been exposed to heat, water and weathering over time. Floor and ceiling tiles that contain more than 1 percent asbestos may be dangerous if the tiles become friable, or able to be crumbled, pulverized or reduced to a powder with hand pressure.

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