Popcorn Ceilings and Asbestos: How to Identify, Test, and Stay Safe

How to Tell If Your Popcorn Ceiling Has Asbestos (and What to Do About It)

What does an asbestos popcorn ceiling look like?

At first sight the answer to this question seems very simple. However, it is not possible to know if a popcorn ceiling contains asbestos by simply looking at it. Although age is in some way indicative as to whether or not the popcorn ceiling contains asbestos - ceilings which were constructed before 1985 are much more likely to have asbestos than those which were constructed after that date, visual inspection is considered a poor standard anyway. If the popcorn ceiling contains asbestos? Then it can generally be decided by the following means:

• Year of construction: Was your home or ceiling constructed before 1985? Then the chances are that it contains asbestos.
• The absence of documents: Are there any documents or receipts kept as to past reconstructions or materials used? In general, older buildings are less likely to have documents or receipts giving proof of what materials were used in the construction.
• The structure is in bad condition: Is the popcorn structure crumbling or loose? In most structures where this is the case, the popcorn structure probably sheds the fibers after being disturbed.

Your safest bet: In almost all instances it will be safer to assume that the popcorn ceiling contains probably asbestos until it has been otherwise proved. If you are unsure how to proceed or need help assessing your ceiling, our professional house painters can inspect and guide you safely through the process of testing, sealing, or refinishing your ceiling.

Testing for Asbestos

In order to know if your ceiling does contain asbestos you must have it tested. Here is how we at Paint Heroes suggest that you test for asbestos:

Don't touch the ceiling, disturb it, scrape it or sand it. Scraping, sanding, or poking at the ceiling can disturb asbestos fibers, which will then be released into the atmosphere.

Call a local, certified asbestos testing company. There are a variety of organizations that give certifications to asbestos testing companies, so be sure you pick one that has an endorsement from a reliable agency. It should be noticed that it is very dangerous to attempt to obtain a sample of asbestos or test for it yourself. Disturbing it can result in the liberation of large amounts of asbestos into the atmosphere.

Know the testing procedure. The testing service will obtain a small sample of the popcorn ceiling and send it by mail to a laboratory which analyzes it. Safety measures will be taken to protect the testers, and you, from any asbestos fibers in the air.

Asbestos Testing Science: Find out more about the science behind asbestos testing, here.

Removing the Hazard: What Are Your Options As A Homeowner?

Once you have confirmed the presence of the asbestos in your ceiling, don’t panic. You have three options:

Leave the asbestos alone. If your ceiling is in good condition and has not been scratched, you have no danger in leaving the asbestos. The chief danger of the asbestos is when the fibers are released into the atmosphere through damage to the ceiling.

Paint the asbestos coating. This is accomplished by a special paint that is applied to the asbestos, which will seal the fibers in. Home painters like Paint Heroes can see that this is done properly and safely.

Have it removed from a certified asbestos removal company. Only certified asbestos abatement contractors should remove asbestos-containing ceiling materials.

As a homeowner, Paint Heroes can help you determine the safest course of action and connect you with local asbestos removal professionals.

Why You Shouldn't Remove Your Own Popcorn Ceilings

While we can completely understand the desire to perform DIY home improvement projects, the removal of asbestos-containing popcorn ceilings is a threat to the health of you and your family members. Even the slightest disturbance of the ceiling can create a situation involving health risks to the other members of your family. Because of the serious nature of this work involved in removing asbestos-containing popcorn ceilings, we highly recommend hiring licensed professionals to handle this important project.

Preparation for Removing or Painting an Asbestos Containing Popcorn Ceiling

No matter whether your tests indicate there are no asbestos-containing materials present, it is important to prepare the job so that your home is ready for the project ahead. Follow these steps:

Remove furniture, carpet and other items surrounding the ceiling you want to paint or repair. Seal off areas adjacent to this area so the asbestos fibers will not migrate beyond this immediate area.

Advise your contractors of the possible presence of asbestos so they can wear the appropriate personal protective equipment and use the proper techniques.

Be sure that your contractors are certified to work on asbestos-containing surfaces.

Home Maintenance - Proactive Steps to Identify Potential Risks

In identifying potentially dangerous risks, a proactive approach is the best method of avoiding the nasty surprises in life. If you are purchasing or remodeling an older home include (as a part of your routine home maintenance if it applies) checks for asbestos. In doing this, you will not only find peace of mind but will also make things easier for yourself in future remodeling (new paint colors, crown moldings, etc.)

Frequently Asked Questions regarding Popcorn Ceilings and Asbestos

Man wondering why his ceilings has abestos

Can I Just Paint Over My Popcorn Ceiling If It Might Have Asbestos?

In many cases, yes. Painting over your popcorn ceiling with asbestos in it is the safest remedy because it seals the fibers of the asbestos in place. However, you will have to use professional grade primer and paint in order to protect your ceiling enough. More importantly, and this goes without saying, do not under any circumstances scrape down or sand your popcorn ceiling, regardless of what type of paint you will use.

For expert advice on properly prepping and painting ceilings (including textured ones), check out this guide to painting ceilings like a pro from This Old House. For help with selecting the right finish or ensuring safe application across a bumpy surface, our team of professional house painters is here to assist you.

What Is The Cost of Asbestos Testing?

The cost of testing for asbestos will vary, depending on where you live and the size of the area to be tested. You may expect to pay from $200.00 to $800.00 for sampling and laboratory testing, which is a relatively small price to pay for the health and well being of yourself and your home.

Is It Safe To Live In A Home With An Asbestos Popcorn Ceiling?

In most cases, yes. If the ceiling is structurally intact and has not been affected or disturbed, it is considerably less dangerous. It is when the integrity of the ceilings surface tends to be broken or poked that the problems arise.

Should I Fix My Popcorn Ceiling If It is Inaccure?

Yes. Call a qualified asbestos abatement specialist as soon as possible. Degrading ceilings put you and those around you at serious health risks.

Is It True All Popcorn Ceilings Have Asbestos In Them?

No, but many popcorn ceilings prior to mid 1980's did contain asbestos. Regardless, test any popcorn ceiling for the presence of asbestos, if for no other reason that incase you would want to either paint or remove it.

Conclusion: Protect Your Home and Family With Qualified Assistance

The protection of your homes interior is not only important to the aesthetic appeal of your home, it is also important to the health of your family. By utilizing qualified professionals, it will only improve the appearance of your home but in the long run, improve the quality of life of your family.

Are You Ready to Regain The Control of Your Ceilings With Class and Color? Let Us Introduce You To Our Comprehensive Residential Home Painting Services. Our Services Are Designed Not Only To Meet Your Requirements But To Enable Safety As Well. Explore our residential painting services to achieve both beauty and protection for your home. At Paint Heroes, We Are More Than Ordinary House Painters, We Are Your Advocates of Peace Of Mind.