5 Tips for Removing Asbestos Ceiling Tiles

Asbestos ceiling tiles were very popular because they were lightweight and inexpensive. It wasn't until much later that it was discovered that asbestos was harmful. The dust and fibers that come off asbestos ceiling tiles as they aged were finding their way in vent systems, food, on people, and more. Asbestos can cause anything from minor skin irritation to severe allergic reactions and also lung damage. Asbestos isn't limited to ceiling tiles, as it was also used in insulation, paint and siding. Asbestos ceiling tiles are particularly dangerous because they're on the exposed ceiling. This provides a much greater risk to people than insulation, which is enclosed or siding which is on the exterior. Asbestos ceiling tiles can be removed, but not without proper precautions or methods. The article below will share some of those with you.

1. Dress Properly

When removing asbestos ceiling tiles, it is very important to dress correctly. Improper dress will mean that the asbestos fibers will get on your skin, in your hair or in your lungs. You will need a full body suit that can be found at specialist shops. They are cheap, lightweight and made out of a cotton-like material with hoods. You will also need gloves, protective glasses and a respirator specifically for asbestos removal.

2. Protect the Space

You will need to remove everything from the area you are working in. This includes desks, tables, chairs, couches and any plants. Asbestos can contaminate everything and anything. You will want to place drop cloths on the floor. Plastic allows asbestos fibers to float back in the air, while cloth will cause them to stick. Asbestos bags are very important, as you will be placing the asbestos ceiling tiles in them for proper disposal.

3. No Air Conditioning

When removing asbestos ceiling tiles, it is very important to make sure that the air conditioning is turned off. This prevents any fibers from blowing to other areas of the space or to other rooms. If you have exposed duct work, then make sure the ventilation system is turned off and the vents are closed. The asbestos fibers can easily make their way inside the ventilation ducts and then get blown around later.

4. Soak the Asbestos Ceiling Tiles

Asbestos is a very fine powder that covers fiber and then is pressurized to form siding or ceiling tiles. When you begin to pry them from the ceiling, the resulting powder will get in the air, causing a potential threat. To stop this from happening, you need to soak the asbestos ceiling tiles with water. This will prevent them from powdering.

5. Remove Tiles Carefully

Even though the tiles are wet and will typically not flake off, you still have to remove them with care. You need to remove them slowly and one at a time. The last thing you want to do is break these tiles as you are removing them. Once you break the tiles, you will create fibers that can enter the air.