DIY Tile Removal: Hazards
DIY Tile Removal: Hazards
It can be dangerous to remove old tiles, especially if you don't have the right protective equipment. Wearing a respirator is one way to avoid inhaling dust particles which can cause lung disease and irritation.
It's best to start a project such as this with an undamaged piece of tile. You can also choose a loose or damaged piece. This will make it much easier to pry the tile off.
Surface damage
When tiles are removed, they often leave chunks of subfloor that are difficult or impossible to remove. These chunks, if left uncovered can weaken subfloors or allow moisture damage to the structure below. You can avoid this by having a dumpster to dispose of the chunks. However, you will still need to spend some time cleaning your work area.
Start removing tiles in a room that you can easily reach. Find a place where the underlayment has been exposed, such as a spot where an old semi-permanent fixture or a hole in the wall was removed. You can then slip a pry-bar or a cold-chisel underneath the tiles to loosen them.
Wear safety glasses, gloves, and long pants when hammering on tile. Sharp shards will fly if you do not wear these. Once the tile has been removed, it is best to use a floor grinder to smooth out the subfloor.
Asbestos exposure
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was once used by many industries. It is composed of tiny fibres which are extremely durable and resistant to fire. It was used in textiles, buildings and to reinforce cement. It was also used in the manufacture of insulation and acoustical materials.
Asbestoses are harmful if they are inhaled or released. This can happen during demolition, renovations, or if the material deteriorates from wear and tear. The risk increases when the material becomes friable, which can release fibers into air. The most common asbestos-containing products are floor tiles, lino and linoleum.
It is important to take the proper safety precautions when working with these materials. Work area should be covered in poly sheeting, and all windows, doors and vents must be closed. Keep a pump sprayer handy to keep the flooring wet. This will make it easier to remove. To protect themselves from microscopic particles, workers should wear a respirator with a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA).
Dust exposure
When a DIYer uses traditional methods to remove tile, they create harmful dust which settles on walls, furniture and draperies. It can also settle in air vents, ductwork and closets. These particles can irritate lungs and trigger severe asthma attacks in people with pre-existing conditions. Inhaling this dust can cause silicosis which is a disabling and irreversible disease.
During the removal process, it is important to wear a mask of high quality. A box fan can also be used to blow the dust away. Wear comfortable work gloves as well as quality eye protection.
Crystalline silica occurs naturally in stone, sand and other materials such as concrete, bricks, and mortar. When tile and thinset are removed using traditional methods, crystalline silica is produced. This dust can cause serious respiratory problems if it is inhaled. It's therefore important to hire a company specializing in dust-free tile removal. This will ensure a cleaner and safer job without releasing harmful silica crystalline into the environment.
Injury
It is not only dangerous, but also ineffective to try and remove tile without the right tools or experience. If you use a hammer, chisel or other hardened steel tool to remove tiles and their adhesive, metal pieces can fly off the surface. This is true, especially if you use excessive force or strike the surface at an unusual angle.
Wear protective eyewear when removing tiles to avoid injury. Wearing goggles to protect your eyes will help you avoid dust and loose debris. A pair of gloves that are medium-to-heavy duty will protect you from cuts and scrapes. Covering the workspace with plastic sheets can also help prevent flying and loose particles from contaminating your work area. Empty trash cans often so they don't overflow and create a hazard to you or others in the area.
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DIY Tile Removal: Hazards It can be dangerous to remove old tiles, especially if you don't have the right protective equipment. Wearing a respirator is one way to avoid inhaling dust particles which can cause lung disease and irritation. It's best to start a project such as this with an undamaged piece of tile. You…