Can I tile over the old asbestos type tiles? Or do I have to remove it first?

Question

Can't I just quick set over it? Then tile?

Yes, I want to use ceramic tile over it.

Answer 1

If the tile are the square hard type, you can surely put down a layer of thin set over it. it will seal in any asbestos. if you try to remove the tiles yourself, its more of a risk. asbostos needs to be fairly powderlike for any inhalation hazard.

Answer 2

You should have someone remove the asbestos tiles. Just heard a report that asbestos isn't as bad as once thought, but why risk it. And from experience, those old tiles aren't adhered to the floor well enough to tile over. While you can tile over sheet vinyl with certain conditions and precautions, don't tile over the tile you are talking about. After removing the tile, check you substrate. You may be able to lay tile over that, but you may have to install an underlayment. A proper substrate generally is 1-1/8" thick, to prevent deflection, and is a material that tile will bond to. Watch out for particle board, luan, structure wood. BC Plywood is at very low end of being acceptable. I prefer hardi backer or concrete board. Another option is ditra-mat or mapei-lath. The last two will only rise the floor a 1/4" plus the tile.

Good luck

Answer 3

if they're bonded to the floor good, you can vinyl tile over them.
make sure your old floor is wax free and well cleaned. They sell a product that if applied first makes for a better adhesion.
I'm a little puzzled by you referral to quickset though. Are you by chance putting ceramic tile's over your old vinyl floor?
If you are, and although I've done that myself, successively, (I've often been accused of taking short cuts) I have to tell you that really isn't recommended. You may want to rough up your tile a little first. Actually using either tile that's a good idea.
Again, be sure to use a good floor prep.
Hope I helped,
Hey, Good Luck, heh.

Answer 4

Yea if you want to take the chance of breathing that asbestos in then go right ahead, you really need to remove that asbestos. Make sure to wear the proper removal gear also,(gloves, masks,etc.)