Can Terrazzo flooring contain Asbestos and How do I Refinish and Polish it if it does?

By Frederick M. Hueston StoneForensics.com

Terrazzo flooring is a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties due to its durability and attractive appearance. However, there has been concern among some individuals about the potential presence of asbestos in terrazzo flooring.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction materials in the past due to its strength, durability, and heat resistance. However, asbestos has been linked to serious health issues such as lung cancer and mesothelioma when its fibers are inhaled.

While asbestos-containing materials are no longer used in construction, many older buildings still contain materials that contain asbestos. This includes flooring materials such as vinyl tiles, sheet flooring, and even some forms of terrazzo flooring.

So, is there asbestos in terrazzo flooring? The answer is that it depends on the age of the building and when the flooring was installed.

Terrazzo flooring was first developed in Italy in the 15th century and became popular in the United States in the early 1900s. The early forms of terrazzo flooring typically did not contain asbestos.

However, in the mid-20th century, some manufacturers began adding asbestos fibers to terrazzo flooring to increase its strength and durability. This practice continued until the 1970s when the use of asbestos in construction materials was banned.

Therefore, if a building was constructed before the 1970s and has never had its flooring replaced, it is possible that the terrazzo flooring may contain asbestos. However, if the flooring was installed after the 1970s, it is unlikely to contain asbestos.

If you suspect that your terrazzo flooring may contain asbestos, it is important to take precautions. The best course of action is to have the flooring tested by a qualified professional to determine if it contains asbestos.

If the flooring does contain asbestos, it should be removed by a professional abatement company to ensure that the fibers are not released into the air during the removal process. Attempting to remove asbestos-containing materials on your own can be extremely dangerous and is not recommended.

While some forms of terrazzo flooring may contain asbestos, it is not a given that all terrazzo flooring is a health hazard. If you are concerned about the presence of asbestos in your terrazzo flooring, it is best to have it tested by a qualified professional and, if necessary, removed by a professional abatement company. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your indoor environment remains safe and healthy.

How to Refinish and polish Terrazzo that contains asbestos

If you have a terrazzo floor that you suspect contains asbestos and you want to polish it, it is important to proceed with caution. While it is possible to polish a terrazzo floor that contains asbestos, it is important to follow proper safety procedures to minimize the risk of asbestos exposure. Here are some steps to take to ensure that you can safely polish your terrazzo floor:

Determine if the floor contains asbestos: If you are unsure whether your terrazzo floor contains asbestos, you should have it tested by a professional asbestos testing company. They will take a sample of the floor material and test it for asbestos content. This will give you a definitive answer as to whether the floor contains asbestos or not.

Use proper protective gear: If your terrazzo floor does contain asbestos, it is important to wear protective gear when working on the floor. This includes a respirator, gloves, and disposable coveralls. Make sure that the respirator is properly fitted and that you are using the correct filters for asbestos.

Contain the work area: Before you begin polishing your terrazzo floor, it is important to contain the work area to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers. This can be done by sealing off the room with plastic sheeting and using a negative air machine to keep the air in the work area flowing away from the rest of the building.

Wet the floor: When polishing a terrazzo floor that contains asbestos, it is important to keep the floor wet to prevent the release of asbestos fibers. Use a low-speed polisher with a water attachment to keep the floor wet while you work. All honing and polishing should be done wet to contain the asbestos and prevent if from becoming airborne.

Clean up carefully: After you have finished polishing the floor, it is important to clean up carefully to minimize the risk of asbestos exposure. Use a HEPA vacuum to clean up any debris or dust, and dispose of any disposable protective gear and cleaning materials properly.

It is possible to safely refinish and polish a terrazzo floor that contains asbestos, but it is important to take the proper precautions to minimize the risk of asbestos exposure. If you are unsure whether your terrazzo floor contains asbestos, have it tested by a professional asbestos testing company before proceeding. Always wear proper protective gear, contain the work area, keep the floor wet while honing and polishing, and clean up carefully after you are finished. By following these steps, you can safely polish a terrazzo floor and maintain its beauty and durability for years to come.