Many older buildings across Massachusetts still have flooring materials that contain asbestos—especially vinyl tiles and the black adhesive known as mastic. These materials were common in residential, commercial, and institutional settings from the 1920s to the late 1980s.
At Femme Works Solutions LLC, we specialize in the safe, certified removal of asbestos flooring (tiles, linoleum) and mastic or glue/adhesive. Our process is fully compliant with Massachusetts DEP and federal EPA regulations, ensuring your space is left safe and ready for renovation or re-flooring.
We can recommend trusted local contractors we partner with to provide our customers with a full service of reflooring. We can also help coordinate with your chosen builder to complete the renovation of your home.
Our Professional Asbestos Tile Removal Approach
Every flooring project begins with a careful evaluation of the affected materials, subfloor, and surrounding space. Our certified team develops a project-specific plan for safe asbestos tile removal while protecting occupants and preventing fibers from spreading beyond the work area. We establish containment, use negative air equipment, and move or cover nearby furniture and fixtures before work begins.
Tiles are carefully lifted using hand tools or specialized equipment selected according to the size and scope of the project. For asbestos mastic removal, our technicians may use wet methods, controlled heat, or environmentally responsible solvents based on the adhesive and underlying surface. These techniques help minimize dust while preparing the floor for its next phase.
Throughout the asbestos floor tile abatement process, we use HEPA-filtered equipment to maintain a clean work environment. Our team seals, labels, and transports all contaminated materials to an approved disposal facility in accordance with applicable Massachusetts DEP, EPA, and OSHA requirements.
What Is Mastic and Why Might It Contain Asbestos?
Mastic is a sticky, tar-like adhesive used to glue tiles to concrete or wooden subfloors. The black mastic used in mid-20th century construction often contained asbestos to increase its strength and resistance to moisture.
Over time, mastic can dry out, crack, and release harmful asbestos fibers into the air—especially when disturbed during demolition or renovation work.
Common Flooring Materials That May Contain Asbestos
You might have asbestos flooring if your building features:
- 9″x9″ vinyl tiles (a standard size during the asbestos era)
- Older linoleum sheets
- 12”x12” floor tiles
- Black or dark brown mastic under tile or carpet
- Tile installed before 1990
Even if your tile or mastic looks intact, it could still pose a risk when disturbed. Our team can confirm the presence of asbestos through lab-certified testing.
Our Professional Removal Approach
We follow a multi-step approach to remove asbestos tile and mastic safely:
- Site Containment: The area is sealed and negative air machines are deployed.
- Surface Prep: Furniture and fixtures are covered or moved.
- Careful Tile Removal: Tiles are removed using hand tools or machine depending on the size and scope of work.
- Mastic Removal: Depending on the surface, we use wet methods, heat, or environmentally safe solvents.
- Surface Cleanup: HEPA vacuums are used to remove and minimize dust.
- Waste Disposal: All materials are sealed, labeled, and transported to certified asbestos disposal facilities.
We complete each job with care and precision, minimizing disruption to your space.
Safe Disposal and EPA Compliance
Improper removal or disposal of asbestos-containing materials can result in legal and environmental penalties. Our company:
- Maintains full Massachusetts DEP licensing
- Follows OSHA and EPA protocols
- Provides documentation of proper disposal
Ensures you’re protected from liability
Will This Be Covered by Mass Save or Other Aid?
In some cases, yes. If you’re removing old flooring as part of an energy-efficiency upgrade (like new insulation or HVAC installation), you may qualify for support through the Mass Save® Program.
We can:
- Check your eligibility
- Coordinate with Mass Save contractors
- Help you complete and submit required paperwork
Ask us how we can reduce your project costs.
Flooring Replacement After Removal
Once the asbestos tile and mastic are removed, we can prep the surface for re-flooring. We work closely with flooring contractors and can recommend options that are:
- Safe and durable
- Moisture- and mold-resistant
- Compatible with your subfloor
Popular choices include LVP (luxury vinyl plank), ceramic tile, and engineered hardwood.
Book a Floor Inspection
Concerned your flooring may contain asbestos? Book a professional inspection today and get the answers you need to move forward safely. We’ll evaluate your space, collect samples (if needed), and provide a clear remediation plan.
Call (978) 701-4140 or email info@femmeworkssolutionsllc.com to get started.