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Most manufacturers stopped putting asbestos in linoleum before 1980 due to public concerns about its toxicity. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) didn’t ban asbestos-containing products until 1989, and a comprehensive ban was not announced until 2024. This means that homes built after 1989 may still have asbestos in their flooring.

Epoxying over asbestos tiles is generally considered a safe option when done correctly. Epoxy acts as a sealant, encapsulating the asbestos tiles and preventing the release of asbestos fibers into the air. The key is ensuring that the asbestos tiles are in good condition, firmly adhered to the substrate, and not damaged or deteriorating. This method is only appropriate for tiles that are undamaged and securely in place. If the asbestos tiles are already loose, damaged, or deteriorating, encapsulating them with epoxy may not be a sufficient solution, as it might not address the potential for ongoing asbestos exposure.

Asbestos-containing materials are not easily affected by water and do not disintegrate or dissolve when exposed to it. However, porous materials can deteriorate due to water exposure, leading to the release of asbestos fibers into the air. The settling of asbestos fibers can also occur as water makes them heavy, which reduces the risk of airborne exposure, though future disturbance of the materials could cause risk. Wetting asbestos-containing materials does not constitute safe removal, and the proper handling and disposal of asbestos materials should be left to professionals.

While there are some sealants designed to be spray-painted over asbestos to encapsulate it, you still want to make sure it’s a specifically designed product for this purpose—not just run-of-the-mill spray paint. Furthermore, be sure you aren’t inadvertently spraying the asbestos fibers around when you take on this project, and as always, be sure to wear the proper protective gear, including a P-100-rated respirator and a disposable body suit, so as not to inadvertently breathe in or spread asbestos fibers.