The Gypsum Solution
Recently, we encountered a small amount of asbestos tiles during a basement remodeling project. Normally this would require a costly remediation, but we are now using a gypsum/cement based prodct that actually encapsulates the asbestos tiles. Once the tiles are encapsulated, it is completely safe to lay new tile, wood or carpet on top of the existing tiles. The gypsum also levels the old cement slab. While this underlayment product has been widely used in commercial properties, it has recently become more popular in residential renovations. While safe and effective, gypsum should still be applied by a professional – particularly when dealing with any form of asbestos.
Cement underlayments, especially ones with gypsum, must be kept fairly dry and are best suited for above grade applications. When installed below grade, a well-controlled environment that is cooled in the summer and heated in the winter is recommended. Even if the floor gets wet, for example from minor flooding, it can be dried using conventional floor drying. After the product has been dried it will be ready to accept any new flooring.
Asbestos is most commonly found in 9”x9” floor tiles in homes constructed as recently as the 1980’s. Some of these floor tiles can be 70% asbestos filler. Before the product is applied you need to ensure there are no loose tiles and the area has been properly prepared using damp mops to pick up any loose dirt. You never want to handle removing loose tiles on your own. Make sure to contact your local DEP office for a list of qualified contractors to remove the loose material in a safe way. Also never sand, grind, or use glue tiles to hold them down. This can be more dangerous. Once your basement is properly prepped, gypsum can be applied and your basement remodel can begin.
For reference, I have included a link to my project and another showing the application process.
Contractor Trust
Often times you hear on the news about a contractor ripping people off; unfortunately some less than reputable contractors do things like this in order to make up for lost revenues. However, a few bad apples in this case don’t always spoil the bunch. There are a number of great contractors working to provide you a safe and beautiful home without padding the final bill or cutting corners. In my experience most contractors are great at what they do, and they honor their reputation. They know that all you can do is trust their word and they take that very seriously.
Recently I had to triple a client’s budget on a simple basement remodeling job due to unforeseen complications. I had been working with an aging couple who wanted to update their 1970’s finished basement because they were planning on staying in the house for many more years. After starting the demolition process we discovered extensive mold growth. We had to remove the mold to protect the health of my clients, but once we removed all of the damaged drywall their budget would only cover the cleanup costs. Whatever budget they had originally planned on was now out the window.
This is the part of the job I don’t find enjoyable. I never want a client to feel like I am ripping them off, so when I have to tell them the news I get butterflies in my stomach and I fear their reaction. However, I hope to establish a trust with all of my clients before work begins so they know that I am not going to take advantage of them. Most times people understand that unforeseen costs do arise in construction work, and this is why it is important to establish a bond with your contractor before you get started. When there is trust in a contractor relationship, you can feel better about your project and know your money is well spent.