As previously mentioned, as long as you do not remove or disturb your asbestos ceiling tiles, then it is safe to cover them up. In fact, you're only making it even safer to prevent asbestos exposure.
Absolutely. Just keep in mind that you will be disturbing the asbestos when installing the new drywall.
In the majority of homes, yes. Popcorn ceilings are easy to notice, and make homes look and feel dated. Removing them is a quick fix, but it's recommended to leave the work to a pro to ensure there's no asbestos contamination in the home.
Many contractors will suggest adding a thin layer of drywall over the existing popcorn ceiling. This is reasonable would need to pull the crown molding and replace after.
Removing a popcorn ceiling is a messy, time-consuming job. Fortunately, in most cases, it's not necessary because you can easily cover up that unsightly texture with ceiling panels or planks. Most options easily install directly over your existing popcorn ceiling using the Easy Up track and clip installation system.
It is often less expensive to cover a popcorn ceiling instead of removing it. Installing drywall costs $1.50 to $3 per square foot, whereas popcorn ceiling removal averages $7 per square foot. Another option may be installing beadboard panels over top, giving your ceiling a fresh and modern look.
If untouched, these ceilings are generally safe. But over time, the material may begin to deteriorate. If this happens or it becomes disturbed, it could cause airborne asbestos to drop into living spaces. Use of asbestos in textured ceiling materials was at its peak from around 1945 through 1980.
Popcorn Ceiling Removal Costs (Hire A Pro)
No question, the intense amount of labor required will make up the majority of the cost you'll pay. If asbestos is present, budget for a range of $50 to $150 per square foot for a certified contractor to properly remove it.
One of the most worrying issues with asbestos is that in the event that it does get disturbed, it can be easily released into the air, and remain there for some time. It is thought that disturbed asbestos can stay airborne for as long as 48 to 72 hours before settling.
If your ceiling tests positive for asbestos, do not attempt to paint it yourself; instead, contact a professional contractor who is trained in removing asbestos from popcorn ceilings. Note: Homes built after 1978 will not have asbestos in the acoustic ceilings.
Homes built before the 1980s likely have asbestos in them. For instance, if these homes have popcorn ceilings or vinyl flooring, they may contain asbestos. A simple rule is the newer a home is, the less likely it has asbestos materials.
Leave the ceiling alone or hire an asbestos abatement contractor to do the work. If you remove this ceiling dry, you will contaminate your home with asbestos and expose yourself and your family to potentially high concentrations of airborne asbestos fibers. These fibers may remain in your home indefinitely.
The cost to skim coat over a averages $300 to $450 or $1 to $1.50 per square foot. This involves the process of applying a thin layer of plaster directly over the texture, rather than removing it first, and can cut down on the project price by taking away the removal expenses.
Paint on the asbestos is a cost-effective way to apply encapsulation coating on the surface when abatement is costly to opt for.
If the test shows the presence of asbestos, be very careful as you cover the ceiling with insulation panels, drywall, or another surface.
Asbestos does not always need to be removed before a sale. If the material is in good condition and poses no immediate risk (e.g., it is contained and undisturbed), sellers can disclose its presence without taking further action.
On July 12, 1989, EPA issued a final rule under Section 6 of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) banning most asbestos-containing products in the United States. In 1991, the rule was vacated and remanded to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
The only way to be sure if a popcorn ceiling has asbestos is to have it tested by a certified professional, who can recommend next steps to keep you and your family safe.
Popcorn ceilings installed from 1945 until the early 1990s commonly contained asbestos. It was a popular spray-on ceiling material and contained 1% – 10% asbestos. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned asbestos in spray-on ceiling materials in 1973.
Cost-Effective: Covering a popcorn ceiling is often more budget-friendly than removing it, as it requires fewer materials and less labor.
This texture was created by spraying a mixture of materials like Styrofoam, paint, and in many older homes, asbestos. Popular from the 1950s through the 1980s, popcorn ceilings were a hallmark of the post-war housing boom. They were quick to apply, hid imperfections, and even helped with noise control.
Installing Ceiling Planks Over Popcorn
Scraping it off is a time-consuming, messy process. If you hire a contractor to remove it, it can be expensive. Covering your popcorn ceiling with panels is an easy, cost-effective, and beautiful way to add dimension and value to your home.