We have removed our carpet and have discovered old tile-like hardwood (9" x 9" squares). We haven't decided what to replace it with, but we're thinking of trying to refinish the wood. (Is it worth trying to fix?) A lot of the pieces are broken.

Problem: It is painted (white and army green).....house was built in 1958......read online that it may contain asbestos and have it checked. Who do you contact to have this wood checked? If it were to have asbestos, is it safe to lay on top with any type of flooring?

Thanks for any advise

labman

It was the asphalt or vinyl tile, not hardwood that contained asbestos. DIY home owners have much more slack in the regulations than contractors and lower profiles. If the tile is laid with the grain in alternating directions, sanding it would be difficult plus replacements for the broken ones might be hard to find. Although redone, it would be an attractive period piece, unless you are going for an authentic showplace, you might better rip it out and select a modern replacement.