Non-Toxic Ceiling Tiles & Glue

Content

• When choosing non-toxic ceiling tiles and glue, make sure they don’t not contain any hidden toxic ingredients or chemicals. Consider avoiding volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. This is a broad term that covers groundwater contaminants that are harmful to your overall health. Most products display clear warning labels that indicate they contain VOCs. Non-toxic glues should be water-based and made from natural ingredients that are safe, such as soy. They should be formaldehyde-free and low in odor.

Significance

• The best way to know if you are working with non-toxic ceiling tiles and glue products is to understand what toxic chemicals can be found in some glues and tiles. Some tiles, especially older tiles manufactured before the 1970s, contain harmful chemicals, such as asbestos. Asbestos is a type of fibrous material that is resistant to heat and most chemicals. It is derived from a process using tremolite, serpentine, grunerite and actinolite and is found in many ceiling tiles and insulation. Asbestos can lead to lung disease and certain types of cancers, including mesothelioma. It can be difficult to determine if a product contains asbestos unless it is identified by a professional or examined in a laboratory, although most tiles newly manufactured do not contain asbestos. An alternative would be to use ceiling tiles that contain recycled cardboard and other natural materials to eliminate your risk of getting sick or developing an illness that could eventually cause severe health implications. Glue that is low in VOCs will help avoid exposure to chemicals that could damage your respiratory tract.

Uses

• You can use non-toxic materials when replacing an old ceiling or installing a new one. If you are using a non-toxic adhesive, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Instructions may include using nails or screws in addition to the glue in order to adhere the tiles properly. You may also use the glue for other purposes such as base adhesive for non-metal trim to make sure your project finishes flawlessly.

Precaution

• If removing old ceiling tiles and glue is part of your new construction project, handle the debris carefully to reduce your risk of asbestos or other chemical exposure. If in doubt, hire a professional waste removal company to dispose of the asbestos properly. If you are sure it isn't asbestos, but are worried it still may contain some harmful adhesive glue or cancer-causing agents, do not expose to your respiratory tract, skin or mucous membranes. Be sure to wear protective gloves and a mask, and make sure your skin is not exposed. Once removed, replace with non-toxic ceiling tiles and adhesive.