Popcorn Ceilings and Asbestos Content
© 2008 by Kelly Smith all rights reserved
Do your house have those tired old popcorn ceilings? They used to be very popular because they were
easy to install and they saved residential building contractors buckets of money. But during the past
few years, they've really fallen out of style. Here's a comprehensive article
on how to remove popcorn ceilings.
Beware of Asbestos Content
Unfortunately, many home builders relied on adding asbestos content to their popcorn texture mix.
They didn't realize the dangers of mesothelioma and other fiber-related health risks. The asbestos
seemed like a no-brainer since the fiber content helped the mix hold together and it increased the
fireproofing aspect of the home.
Accordingly, there is one thing that you must do before you attempt to remove any of your popcorn
ceilings: have it analyzed for asbestos. There are plenty of labs that can do this for a very small
fee.
Asbestos Abatement - Can You do It?
In a word; NO. You'll have to get a professional asbestos abatement contractor to do it if the
test is positive. At first glance it might seem not so big a deal; don a respirator, get some bags
and scrape away.
Actually, there are a couple of reasons that you shouldn't mess with it.
- The powers-that-be make the rules very hard to play by - special suits, double bagging, etc.
- Whoever performs the abatement is permanently responsible for it. That means, like, forever!
If someone happens to get into the bags and gets sick, they're coming after you, like fleas on an
old hound dog. Have you seen the size of some of those legal settlements? Whew!
Finishing the Drywall Ceiling
Once the old texture is gone, you'll need to bring the ceiling up to standards. Most likely you'll
have some drywall taping and floating to do. Remember that you'll be applying the sheetrock compound
above your head; keep your mouth closed!
Next, apply a new texture. Get as creative as you want. Finally, slap on a paint job and you're
good to go!
Did you find this article helpful? Find more content and DIY information at
ICFUMH Interior Project Articles.
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