Floor backing and drywall taping compounds are materials used in building construction. Floor backing is a type of insulation material that is used to cushion flooring, and drywall taping compound is a paste-like mixture that is used to close gaps between drywall sheets.

Products manufactured prior to the late 1900s often contained asbestos fibers, as the material is resistant to weathering, extreme temperatures and caustic substances.

Floor Backing

Floor backing is used to prevent moisture absorption and may be applied to the following materials:

Vinyl flooring
Tiles
Sheet flooring
Linoleum
Asphalt floor tiles
Floor adhesives

This material has been applied commonly in homes as well as commercial buildings, schools, hospitals and stores.

Floor backing that is intact may not release asbestos fibers as long as the tile is whole and undamaged, but worn or broken tiles may emit asbestos fibers into the air. Floor backing that has become friable, or able to crumble with the use of hand pressure, is considered to be a health hazard.

During the construction of a home or building, construction workers or homeowners may be exposed to asbestos. The following actions may disturb asbestos floor backing:

Cutting
Sanding
Breaking
Sawing
Scraping

The removal of floor tiles or the renovation or demolition of a home may also allow asbestos fibers to become airborne.

Drywall Taping Compound

Drywall taping compound is a type of paste or putty that is used as a finish for installed drywall. The product covers gaps between drywall sheets and smoothes over and covers the areas where nail and screws have been inserted.

Thin paper, or tape, is also applied on top of the drywall to create seamless drywall sections and may be sanded and reapplied several times. The process of applying drywall taping compound may expose workers or people nearby to asbestos.

Asbestos fibers that have become airborne can be ingested or inhaled. Professional drywallers and homeowners are typically exposed to asbestos drywall taping compound during the construction of a home or commercial building.

The following procedures may cause asbestos to be released into the air:

Sanding the compound
Cutting or applying the compound to drywall
Mixing the compound with other powdered drywall materials
Sweeping or vacuuming floors after sanding has occurred

Asbestos fibers that have been disturbed and emitted from the drywall taping compound can remain airborne for hours or even days.

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The information provided by The Mesothelioma Center is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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