No, not all vinyl flooring contains asbestos, but many older types, especially those made before the 1980s (or 1990s in some regions), commonly did, particularly in the felt-like backing or adhesive used for durability, so you should assume it might be present in older homes and get it professionally tested if disturbed.
The vinyl sheeting itself does not contain asbestos, however, manufacturers sometimes incorporated a felt-like 'backing' for cushioning purposes. It is this backing which contains asbestos (typically 80–100 per cent).
Safety. Prior to the 1980s, asbestos vinyl sheet flooring was very popular in homes. Are you are removing the original vinyl floor from a home installed prior to 1980? If so, you will need to locate a licensed asbestos abatement contractor to test your floor.
The only way to be sure whether a material contains asbestos is to have it tested by a qualified laboratory. EPA only recommends testing suspect materials if they are damaged (fraying, crumbling) or if you are planning a renovation that would disturb the suspect material.
Asbestos companies largely stopped using asbestos in vinyl products during the 1980s. Many companies already knew exposure could lead to mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Asbestos tile, on the vinyl's surface, can be any color or design. Beneath, ACM vinyl flooring sometimes has an oily or dark discoloration. Over time, oils in the asphalt added to the tiles seep out. Other conditions, such as mold, cause dark colors on tiling.
Off-Gassing & Indoor Air Quality
Vinyl flooring produces volatile organic compounds (VOCs) along with other toxic chemicals. These toxic substances can remain in the air for weeks, months, or even years after vinyl flooring is installed.
Now, the lino itself would usually not contain an asbestos. However, it was the underlay or backing that was attached to the bottom side of the tiles that would contain asbestos. Oftentimes the backing would be pure asbestos – it was this underlay that was then stuck to the subfloor.
How Long Does Asbestos Stay in the Body? If asbestos in the air is inhaled, the fibers become lodged in the lungs, where they can remain for many years. Asbestos-related diseases also typically have long latency periods, with symptoms not showing for 10 to 40 years or even more after the initial exposure.
Sheet flooring offers additional clues: vinyl is usually thinner, often 1/8 inch or less. Furthermore, linoleum typically includes a jute backing, while vinyl sheet flooring features a synthetic cloth backing.
Asbestos is a problem only if fibers are released to the air. Unless asbestos-backed vinyl flooring is disturbed, it should not release asbestos fibers. Hence, the safest, easiest, and least-expensive option may be to leave it alone. Rather than removing it, consider installing a new floor directly on top of it.
The rule of 3 in flooring is a design principle that recommends using no more than three different flooring materials throughout a home to maintain visual cohesion. This guideline helps you create intentional transitions between spaces without overwhelming the eye.
The only way to know for sure is through laboratory testing. While older tiles—especially 9×9 vinyl tiles and black mastic—are more likely to contain asbestos, visual inspection alone cannot confirm it. Professional testing from a certified company like ASAP Restoration provides accurate results.
Accidentally Removed Asbestos Linoleum
If you've already pulled up some flooring and only found out after the fact that it might contain asbestos, stop working immediately, seal off the area if possible. Call an asbestos professional, and let them assess the situation and test the air if needed.
How are asbestos-related diseases detected?
Asbestosis (as-bes-TOE-sis) is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Prolonged exposure to these fibers can cause lung tissue scarring and shortness of breath. Asbestosis symptoms can range from mild to severe, and usually don't appear until many years after initial exposure.
What practical steps can you take to minimise worry?
No known method exists to remove asbestos fibers from the lungs once they are inhaled. Some types of asbestos are cleared naturally by the lungs or break down in the lungs.
Asbestos vinyl sheet flooring in the 1970s used the material to provide a cushioned backing. This use of asbestos poses a serious exposure risk when disturbed.
Asbestos floor tiles come in many different colours, such as grey, white, brown, black, and green. Vinyl floor tiles are mainly in light colours like cream, pink, green, and blue, whereas asbestos asphalt tiles are typically darker in colour, as a consequence of asphalt being the primary material.
Does Linoleum Have Asbestos? Yes, some linoleum produced before 1980 may contain asbestos. Asbestos was often added to both linoleum and vinyl products, however, there are a few differences between these types of flooring. Linoleum was most popular from the 1920s through the 1950s.
However, the vinyl flooring industry also has its list of detractors, who claim the risks of vinyl flooring outweigh the benefits. They have many concerns about the possible long-term ramifications of mass-produced vinyl flooring products on people and the environment.
Q: How long does vinyl flooring off-gas? A: The most significant off-gassing typically occurs right after installation. However, lower levels of VOC emissions may continue for weeks or even months. Good ventilation can significantly speed up this process.
The main danger of vinyl flooring is the presence of phthalates, which are chemicals used to make the material soft and flexible. Phthalates can leach out over time, leading to potential health risks such as reproductive issues or cancer.