Nail Through Asbestos Tile Floors
Tiles used in older homes are likely to contain asbestos. Asbestos can be a health hazard and should be treated with care. If the tiles are damaged, they can release asbestos fibers into the environment. Securing loose tiles in place may require nailing them down. Or, you may want to nail the tiles in place prior to covering them with a safer alternative flooring. The proper steps should be taken to avoid contact with the harmful substance.
Instructions
1. Put on safety glasses and a respirator prior to beginning any work with asbestos-containing materials. You do not have to alert any authorities to the work as long as you are doing it as a homeowner. Contractors dealing with ACM's need to follow specific guidelines and reporting procedures that vary slightly by jurisdiction.
2. Prepare a drill and a drill bit that is the same, or slightly larger, diameter than the shaft of the nails that you intend to use. The drill bit should be carbide tipped as asbestos materials are very hard.
3. Wet the area that you will be drilling to minimize dust. Shaving cream is an excellent product to use to contain asbestos material.
4. Drill slowly and carefully through the tile in four corners of the tile. Drill your hole about 1-inch in from either edge of the tile. Use very light pressure when drilling, as asbestos tiles will be old and fragile. You want to avoid cracking them. Drill through the tile and slightly into the underlying material that you will be nailing into. Continuing wetting the area with a spray bottle, or applying shaving cream, as you drill.
5. Hammer the nails through the pilot holes and nearly, but not completely, flush to the tiles. Use a nail punch to finish setting the nail head flush to the tile. This will help you avoid hitting the tile with the hammer.
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