Is it safe to remove asbestos flooring tiles yourself? How dangerous is it?

Question

We have discovered asbestos tile under the carpet and want to put in hardwood floors.

Answer 1

You can do it, but you must be careful. The trick is to not make the asbestos airborne, so do not break up the tile. As long as it stays imbedded you are fine, however I would still take the precaution of wearing a good quality mask.

I am not a professional, so do not take this opinion as such...I was given the same advise and had seen some pamphlets to the same effect.

Answer 2

Exposure to asbestos over time can be harmful. Truth is, this is not really a DIY project. If you can afford it, get a professional to come and do it for you. It's not an easy task to remover the tiles and if you have kids running around the house, dont subject them to the dust. Like I said, It wont kill you immediately, it is not like breathing cyanide, but why risk it if there are companies that specialize it it.

Answer 3

I removed it for 15 years before they said it was bad, I always used a regular mask with filters bought at homeDepot. I'm still kicking with no problems. The tile isnt like other products that contain asbestos. Not as much dust, Keep the house doors open and get it up. Before the guys in white suits, we used to smoke this stuff I thnk. lol

Answer 4

Get professionals as even small amounts of inhaled dust can be fatal and cause terminal lung cancer. Your life is worth more than the cash it costs to get proper people in. Also the dust can spread to other areas of your home - do not chance it with not only your life but that of others too.

Answer 5

People who thank me by telling me that I "did a good job." Those who put in a good word for me, or brag on me. That is really the only way that I feel good about myself...I cannot do anything without getting the approval of someone else. And if they say that I didn't do a good job, or I was sloppy, then it makes me really look down on myself. I want to do something over if I think it wasn't "satisfactory" enough. Now, what really makes me feel good, is girls that flirt with me...which seldom every happens, but I do like it. :) Great question!

Answer 6

Give spadesboffin 10 points for the best answer. It's very dangerous. Even if you removed it safely you still have to dispose of it safely per EPA regulations. THIS STUFF KILLED MY GRANDFATHER AND HIS BROTHER. THEY BOTH DIED HORRIBLE DEATHS. There are companies who do professional asbestos abatement.

Answer 7

you'll be fine with a simple hepifilter mask. you do not need to be terrified of death. it is not necessary to spend so much money when you can do it yourself. it is not that dangerous. just try not to break the tiles. even if you do break some tiles, the mask will completely protect you. trust me, it is not fatal--if it was, my fiancee wouldnt be around. he's had lots of experience in this area.

Answer 8

Get professional help and be out of there while the asbestos is being removed -- because this stuff does cause lung damage and leads to serious lung diseases, including cancer.

Answer 9

Don't touch it, as long as it is untouched, it isn't dangerous, but once it gets into the air, it destroys your lungs. My grandpa took some out a while ago and never had lung problems before and he smoked for 20 years. After he touched the asbestos, he has ashtma and some really nasty disease. Stay away from it.

Answer 10

Very dangerous, that craps not good at all thats why its been banned from building.....I personally would hire someone, you won't like the price but its better then taking a chance on you and your families health