Asked on Dec 20, 2017

I have old asbestos flooring in basement, can I paint over it...

Diane
by Diane
  8 answers
  • Cindy Hagemann Cindy Hagemann on Dec 20, 2017

    Yes, better to cover it then to remove it.

  • Ken Ken on Dec 20, 2017

    We got three dots after "can I paint over it" so could not see your entire question.


    As asked, YES. Entombing in place of asbestos products is acceptable. In public and commercial buildings they usually post some sort of warning sign so people will know after we are gone. There is no such requirement for homes but it would be a great idea to make a hang-tag and attach it to a water pipe out of the way or a label on the breaker/fuse panel warning future inhabitants of asbestos flooring.

  • Morgan Morgan on Dec 20, 2017

    Yes. Asbestos becomes dangerous when it's disturbed through chipping, cutting, breaking which sets the fibers in the air and any removal should be handled only by a certified asbestos abatement team. But the good news is that if you don't disturb it, you can paint, tile, install laminate or carpet over it. These days, I think if you ever plan to sell your house, you must disclose that the asbestos flooring exists in your house regardless of what you've done to cover it.

  • Agreed - cover it. It's not a problem unless you disturb it and it goes airborne.

  • TAMMY SPALSBURY TAMMY SPALSBURY on Dec 20, 2017

    What Ive Heard do not try to remove it what so ever. But yes it can be painted, and that will help keep the asbestos intact.

  • William William on Dec 21, 2017

    Do not disturb the tiles. Yes you can legally cover or paint them. EPA calls it encapsulation. Use a good floor and porch enamel. Regular paint won't seal them.