Home floor coverings may contain hidden asbestos health dangers . . .

Asbestos fibers were often woven into floor coverings to give them strength and durability, but done so without much consideration to the severe health problems these products can create. Experience shows that asbestos exposure can lead to asbestosis, lung cancer and even mesothelioma.

Floor covering products that may contain asbestos include: sheet vinyl, vinyl tile, and vinyl adhesives.

These products are considered safe unless the flooring is damaged or repaired. Damage could occur as a result of prolonged or excessive abrasion. Breaking, sawing, cutting, grinding, and sanding will release asbestos fibers into the environment.

When replacement or repair becomes necessary, these flooring products should be handled as little as possible and disposed of in an approved manner. If you need to replace floor covering, sometimes the best solution is to lay the new floor directly over the old one.

Contact local health or air pollution control authorities to determine requirements for proper disposal of asbestos-containing material and products. Be sure not to power grind or sand down the flooring, the remaining adhesive or adhesive backing.

Asbestos-containing material that remains in your house must eventually be dealt with, if and when you remodel or demolish. Notifying future buyers of its hidden existence may be required in your locality.

Weitz & Luxenberg is a leading plaintiffs' law firm that has represented people affected by mesothelioma for over 20 years. Men and women diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure may be entitled to compensation from the companies responsible for their disease. If you would like a free consultation or more information about your legal options, please complete the form on this page, and a representative of our law firm will contact you as soon as possible.