When Was Popcorn Ceiling Popular?
Popcorn ceilings were extremely popular from the 1950s to the 1980s. Most popcorn ceilings were made with asbestos before the dangers of this deadly material were widely known.
If your home was built before the 1980s and has popcorn ceiling texture, it may contain asbestos.
Learn how to find out if your popcorn ceilings contain asbestos before you start your next home renovation project.
Are Asbestos Popcorn Ceilings Safe?
Often dubbed a “sleeping monster,” asbestos found in building materials does not pose a risk until it is disturbed. At that point, it becomes extremely dangerous, putting anyone who breathes it in at risk for deadly diseases such as mesothelioma.
If the popcorn ceilings in your home are in good shape, they are likely safe. However, if you notice damage — or if you plan to make changes to your home that might disturb the popcorn ceilings — you will need to act quickly. Even one exposure to asbestos can increase the risk of asbestos-related diseases.
Asbestos popcorn ceilings can be disturbed during renovations and even normal wear and tear and, as a result, release dangerous fibers into the air. The best plan of action is to have your popcorn ceilings tested for asbestos.
How to Tell If a Popcorn Ceiling Has Asbestos
Since asbestos fibers are so tiny, they might not be visible to the naked eye. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends that homeowners do not touch the ceiling and instead look for tears, abrasions, or water damage.
If you see any damage or you are planning a home renovation, you can hire a trusted professional to take a sample of the ceiling and have it tested for asbestos. If it comes back positive, you can work with a contractor to begin the removal process.
Mesothelioma Hope can help you find a licensed asbestos contractor to inspect your ceiling and keep your family safe from exposure. Contact us today to get started.
6 Tips for Dealing With Asbestos Popcorn Ceilings
If you learn that your popcorn ceilings contain asbestos, follow these useful tips:
- Look for visible damage, as that signals it’s time for the ceiling to be removed.
- Do not use tape, screws, or nails in the ceiling.
- Do not scrape or touch the ceiling.
- Do not install shelving that connects with the ceiling.
- Do not use bunk beds in a room that has an asbestos popcorn ceiling.
- Do not throw pillows or toys at the ceiling.
Removing Asbestos Popcorn Ceilings
If you decide to have your asbestos popcorn ceiling removed, it is critical that you hire someone who will take the proper precautions and follow all guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Some protective measures include:
- Arranging services to pick up asbestos waste.
- Covering light fixtures that can’t be removed with plastic.
- Closing vents so asbestos doesn’t get into airways.
- Ensuring that people and pets stay out of the area.
- Keeping asbestos materials wet.
- Placing all asbestos material in sealed waste bags.
- Removing furniture before asbestos removal.
- Sealing windows and doors.
- Turning off fans so asbestos does not travel.
- Wearing protective gear.
Failing to follow proper safety measures can cause asbestos fibers to become airborne and put everyone in your home in danger.
Need help navigating asbestos popcorn ceiling removal? Our team is here to help — call (866) 608-8933 now.
Seeking Justice for Asbestos Exposure
Many people have developed asbestos-related diseases as a direct result of working with or around asbestos popcorn ceilings. If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos and were later diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease like mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation.
Get in touch with our dedicated team of Patient Advocates today by filling out our free case review form. We can evaluate your case and determine if you may be eligible for financial aid.
