Homes and buildings
Asbestos floor tile and bitumen removal in Manchester
Old thermoplastic and vinyl floor tiles, and the black bitumen glue under them, can contain asbestos. They are usually lower risk while intact, but sanding, grinding or breaking them is not safe.
In Manchester's older homes, shops and workshops, 9-inch and 12-inch floor tiles laid before about 1985 are a common find, often with black adhesive underneath. Many carpets cover them without anyone knowing.
A sample confirms what you have. If it is asbestos, the tiles are lifted with controlled methods, the adhesive is dealt with using suitable techniques and the area is cleaned with a HEPA vacuum. The contractor confirms the category of work in the quote.
How the job runs
- 1
Test the tiles and glue
A small sample goes to a laboratory so you know what you have.
- 2
Prepare the area
The room is sealed and signed. Floor coverings are taken up with minimum disturbance.
- 3
Lift and remove
Tiles are lifted whole where possible and bitumen is treated as the method statement says.
- 4
Clean and hand back
HEPA vacuuming and wet cleaning follow. Waste is double-wrapped and removed with paperwork.
What affects the price
- Floor area and number of layers
- Whether the adhesive is also asbestos
- Subfloor condition and finish required
- Furniture and access
- New flooring afterwards
Common questions
Can I lay a new floor over old tiles?
Sometimes it is acceptable if the old tiles are intact. Ask the contractor, and never sand or grind them.
Is this licensed work?
Usually not, but the contractor confirms the category once they have seen the material.