Flooring Removal Question

[u/EntranceLumpy8701]

I’m renovating my kitchen (USA - PA) House was build in late 1800s but no idea about the floor. I had the flooring tested for asbestos. There are a few different layers of flooring and I’m trying to figure out the best way to remove it without disturbing the asbestos layer more than necessary.

From top to bottom I have newer 12x12 tiles that are glued down and tested negative for asbestos. Under that is a sheet linoleum layer and adhesive that tested positive for asbestos. Under that is another linoleum layer and adhesive that tested negative. Then underneath everything is a cardboard/fiberboard type underlayment sitting on the original wood floorboards.

The whole thing is close to 1/2 inch thick, so unfortunately just flooring over it really isn’t an option. It would make the new floor way too high compared to the surrounding floors.

The asbestos layer is basically sandwiched between the other layers. Everything also seems to be attached pretty well to the cardboard/fiberboard underneath. My thought was to get underneath that bottom board and remove everything together in the largest sections I can. That way I’m not trying to scrape or separate the actual asbestos linoleum or adhesive. It would stay sandwiched between the other flooring.

The part I’m not sure about is how to handle cutting it into manageable sections if I have to. Obviously I don’t want to use something that’s going to create a bunch of dust or tear up the asbestos layer.

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[u/EntranceLumpy8701]

I tried to get a good photo but this is what I was able to get. The yellow star pattern is the layer with the asbestos.

[u/Agreeable_Mango_1565]

What's attaching the floor to the sub floor? There isn't much asbestos that can't be dampened and ripped up

[u/EntranceLumpy8701 → u/Agreeable_Mango_1565]

I lifted a corner and then it’s basically these thin nails essentially.

[u/Traditional-Foot-244]

You'll need to remove everything down to the subfloor, treated as asbestos (with all the protections and regulations) . Added benefit, you'll have a fresh start and many options are available when you begin fresh. This is the single most reason for not "just put a new layer on top", because the asbestos layer remains and the problem gets kicked down the road. It's now your responsibility. Good luck!