Hello. The office we work in has what we believe to be vinyl tiles, 12x12, with a white powdery substance that is always on the floor. It looks as though the tile has never been sealed before so I‘m not sure if this is the cause. I have read online about efflorescence. Could this be that? I‘m really nervous because I don‘t know if it is asbestos. There are a few people in this area, and our chairs are constantly rolling around on the floor. I would say that the floor is just worn down because of the high traffic but I just wanted opinions on what it could be. This powder gets on the bottom of our chairs and our shoes. Any help is appreciated!
Hi, I work in the building trade have had to do basic asbestos awarenesss training.Asbestos was used in floor tiles into the 1970's- But I strongly recommend you look on the Health Safety web site this will give you advice on were to go for help. If in ANY doubt you must check this out urgently, please don'tt put it off- asbestos kills.
first do not to panic 12x12s are not asbestos second yes seal and wax the tiles
Mpffff... 12 x 12 tiles are extremely unlikely to be asbestos-based. Efflorescence happens only with concrete/mortar-based materials. However, if the tiles are loosely laid (still solid, but with gaps or areas of poor adhesion) over concrete with moisture underneath, you could be getting efflorescence penetrating the tile - and if this is a slab-on-grade, that is even likely. If it is laid over anything but concrete that is not the issue. Older VCT (vinyl composition tile) will deteriorate with age and the surface will powder and crumble. But by this point, the stuff should be coming right off the floor.
