Publication date: 12/14/2010

Remove old, damaged floor before installing a new one

Dear Glenn: I recently had a water heater leak in my basement. Some tiles were damaged and need to be replaced. They, or the adhesive that holds them in place, contain asbestos. Should I approve my insurance company installing new tiles directly over the old floor or should I demand the old floor be removed?

Dear George: Before installing the new floor, I would advise you to completely remove the damaged floor along with the adhesive. Installing a new floor over the old damaged floor will cause you nothing but problems in the future.

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