Asbestos Vinyl Floor Tiles
What Are Asbestos Vinyl Floor Tiles?
Asbestos vinyl floor tiles were widely installed between the 1950s and 1980s in homes, offices, hospitals, schools, and factories. These tiles typically contain Chrysotile (white asbestos), either in the tile itself or more often in the bitumen-based adhesive beneath.
They are usually:
- 9-inch or 12-inch square tiles
- Brown, black, red, green, or marbled in colour
- Laid in grid patterns or individually glued
Although asbestos vinyl tiles are bonded and lower-risk when undisturbed, they can become dangerous when lifted, sanded, or damaged.
Asbestos Vinyl Tile Identification
Older floor tiles may contain asbestos even if they look modern. Signs include:
- Brittle 9×9-inch tiles
- Black or brown adhesive beneath
- Lino backed with paper-like material
Confirm the presence of asbestos by booking a professional asbestos survey.
Asbestos Vinyl Tile Removal
Removing asbestos floor tiles or adhesive must be done carefully to avoid disturbing the fibres, especially if adhesive residues are scraped. We offer fully compliant asbestos removal services across the UK.
Asbestos Vinyl Tile Health Risks
While intact vinyl tiles pose little immediate danger, breaking, sanding or stripping them can release fibres. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of:
- Asbestosis
- Mesothelioma
- Lung cancer
Asbestos Vinyl Tile Applications
You’ll commonly find asbestos vinyl floor tiles in:
- Domestic kitchens and hallways
- Schools and office buildings
- Factories and boiler rooms
- Commercial kitchens and shops
If you suspect asbestos beneath the floors, arrange an asbestos management survey.
Asbestos Vinyl Tile Testing
The only way to be certain is through bulk sampling and lab testing. We offer asbestos sampling and testing across the UK for tiles, lino, and adhesives.
Asbestos Vinyl Tile Disposal
Removed tiles and adhesive waste must be:
- Bagged or wrapped and clearly labelled
- Handled with PPE and RPE
- Disposed of at licensed hazardous waste facilities
Full details are on our asbestos disposal service page.
Asbestos Vinyl Tile Regulations
Even bonded materials like vinyl tiles fall under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Disturbing them may require non-licensed or notifiable non-licensed work depending on condition.
Asbestos Vinyl Tile Encapsulation
If the tiles are in good condition and not being disturbed, they can be encapsulated (e.g. by laying over them with new flooring). This method is safe and compliant—read more in our asbestos management solutions.
Asbestos Vinyl Tile Cost
Cost depends on:
- Area size
- Condition of tiles and adhesive
- Whether removal or encapsulation is required
Examples of Asbestos Vinyl Floor Tiles
See our gallery below for photos of real asbestos floor tiles and adhesives found during surveys. If your building has original flooring from the mid-1900s, contact us through our contact page
