Congoleum Flooring Asbestos | Taraba Home Review

August 25, 2018

When it comes to flooring, Congoleum has long been a trusted provider of durable and stylish options. But many homeowners may not be aware that some Congoleum products contain asbestos, a hidden health hazard that can cause serious respiratory illnesses. As a result, identifying and removing asbestos-containing Congoleum flooring is essential for ensuring the safety of your family and your property.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was once used in a variety of construction materials, including insulation, roofing, siding, and flooring. It is now known to be a human carcinogen, causing illnesses like mesothelioma and asbestosis when inhaled. Congoleum flooring manufactured before 1980 may contain asbestos, making it a potential hazard if disturbed or damaged. The company has since replaced many of its products with asbestos-free versions, but some older products still contain the hazardous material.

In order to determine whether your Congoleum flooring contains asbestos, it is important to understand some of the warning signs. For example, asbestos-containing Congoleum flooring typically has a flecked or mottled appearance, with small specks of color on a dark background. The flooring may also be textured, with a corrugated or waffled surface. In addition, certain types of Congoleum flooring may bear an asbestos warning label, which reads “Warning: This product contains asbestos fibers, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.”

If you suspect your Congoleum flooring contains asbestos, the most important thing to do is to not disturb it. Asbestos fibers can become airborne when disturbed, creating an inhalation hazard. Instead, contact a professional asbestos abatement company to come and test the material. The company will take samples and send them to a laboratory for analysis. If the results confirm the presence of asbestos, the abatement company can then come and safely remove the material.

Removing asbestos-containing Congoleum flooring is a complex process that should only be undertaken by a certified and licensed asbestos removal contractor. The contractor will first seal off the area to contain any asbestos fibers that may be released during the removal process. The contractor will then use special equipment, such as vacuums and HEPA filters, to ensure that no asbestos fibers are released into the air.

Once the asbestos-containing Congoleum flooring has been removed, the area must be thoroughly cleaned and all debris must be disposed of in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. After the area has been cleaned, it is then safe to install a new flooring material. When installing a new flooring material, make sure to check the product label for a statement that it does not contain asbestos.

Congoleum flooring can be a stylish and durable option, but it is important to remember that some older products may contain asbestos, a known carcinogen. If you suspect your flooring contains asbestos, contact a qualified professional to test and safely remove the material. Doing so will help protect your family and your property from the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure.

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