The black adhesive underneath
Many old tiles were laid on black bitumen adhesive, often called black mastic, and that can contain asbestos too. Removing it can be straightforward or very hard, depending on how strongly it has bonded to the floor, so we test the adhesive as well as the tile.
Signs your tiles may contain asbestos
- Small squares, often about 9 inches
- Laid in homes, shops or schools before 1990
- Dark, brittle tiles with a black adhesive layer
- Tiles hidden under newer coverings
Appearance alone is not enough. A sample result is what counts.
After removal
The floor is left clean and ready for a new finish. We can help with levelling, new flooring and fitting, so you are not left with a bare floor.
How we do the work
Inspect and test
We assess the tiles and take samples of both tile and adhesive for laboratory analysis.
Prepare the room
The work area is sealed with sheeting and barriers, and the floor and fixtures are protected.
Lift the tiles wet
Tiles are dampened and lifted in whole pieces by hand where possible. Breakage is kept to a minimum.
Deal with the adhesive
We remove adhesive using controlled wet methods and the right tools for the bond strength.
Clean and bag
HEPA vacuums and wet wipes clear the floor. Everything is double-bagged as asbestos waste.
Dispose with paperwork
A registered carrier takes the waste to an authorised site, and you receive the consignment note.
Asbestos waste is double-bagged, sealed and taken by a registered carrier to an authorised disposal site. You receive a waste consignment note as your legal record.