Armstrong Holdings Inc. said its major operating subsidiary, Armstrong World Industries Inc., has filed for voluntary reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in order to resolve its asbestos liability.

Armstrong Holdings, Triangle Pacific Corp., WAVE (Armstrong's ceiling grid systems joint venture with Worthington Industries), Armstrong Canada, Armstrong DLW AG and its other non-U.S. operating subsidiaries were not a part of the filing.

The company said that all its businesses are operating as usual and that it is maintaining its high standards of customer service. Suppliers will be paid on normal terms for goods delivered and services provided after the Chapter 11 filing.

Like other companies involved in asbestos litigation, Armstrong has tried a number of different approaches to manage its asbestos liability, including negotiating broad-based solutions and supporting efforts to find a legislative resolution. Despite these efforts, the number of cases filed and the cost to settle cases have continued to increase. The company said that the cash demands of asbestos settlements now "threaten the long-term health of its valuable and fundamentally sound businesses."