Popcorn ceilings were popular as an inexpensive, stylish ceiling design for decades. Easy to apply, they also offered cheap soundproofing, making them a favorite for homeowners looking to save. However, they collect dust, are difficult to clean, and – if your home is an older building – just might contain asbestos.
If you’re hoping to renovate your home or scrape your popcorn ceilings, you might be wondering: how can you safely remove an asbestos popcorn ceiling? While you might be considering the DIY route, we think the health risks far outweigh any potential savings.
Asbestos is a natural mineral that was once used widely in building materials for its fire resistance and durability. When disturbed, though, its fibers become airborne and lodge in the lungs. Since the fibers will stay in your lungs once they get there, exposure builds up over time, leading to dangerous conditions such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
There is no safe amount of asbestos exposure, according to the Mesothelioma Center. While one exposure may not immediately spell doom, it’s a game of chance that we just don’t recommend! So – skip the DIY. Instead, let’s explore why professional asbestos abatement is the safest and most effective solution for your home.
When was asbestos banned in popcorn ceilings?
Asbestos was commonly used in popcorn ceilings for its fire-resistant and insulating properties until the late 1970s. Although the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officially banned asbestos in certain building materials in 1978, existing stockpiles were used into the 1980s. If your home was built before 1990, there’s a chance your ceiling contains asbestos.
Asbestos testing is essential before taking any action. Asbestos fibers are too fine to be seen with the human eye, so you may not know if the dust from your ceiling contains it until you’ve already harmed your respiratory system. Learn more about how long an asbestos test takes.
Can you remove an asbestos popcorn ceiling yourself?
Technically, yes—but should you? Absolutely not.
DIY removal of an asbestos popcorn ceiling is extremely hazardous. Every exposure you have with asbestos builds cumulatively in your lungs. Asbestos fibers become airborne during removal, and you can easily inhale it. Asbestos can linger in the air for 48-72 hours, too, meaning that your “one exposure” can easily turn into elongated exposure if you’re scraping every ceiling in your house over the period of a few months.
Without specialized equipment, protective gear, and proper disposal protocols, you risk contaminating your entire home and endangering yourself and others. To DIY an asbestos popcorn ceiling, you’d need protective clothing, a respirator, rubber boots, goggles, and a plan to throw away all potentially asbestos-covered items as well as a disposal system for the actual asbestos-containing items. We recommend reading the warnings offered by the Southwest Clean Air Agency to get an idea of how difficult DIY asbestos removal can be.
Professional asbestos abatement ensures the job is done safely, leaving no room for harmful exposure. It’s a smart investment in your health and peace of mind.
How much does it cost to remove an asbestos popcorn ceiling?
The cost of asbestos removal varies depending on the size of the space, the extent of contamination, and local rates. According to Angie’s List, in 2024 you can expect to pay anywhere from $5-20 per foot of asbestos, with an average cost of $2,000. Encapsulation, an alternative to removal, is typically more affordable but may not suit every situation.
While the upfront cost might seem steep, it pales in comparison to the potential medical and legal costs of improper DIY removal.
Your options for asbestos abatement
When dealing with an asbestos popcorn ceiling, two primary professional options are available: encapsulation and removal. Each has its benefits depending on your specific needs.
Professional encapsulation
Encapsulation involves sealing the asbestos-containing material with a specialized coating to prevent fibers from becoming airborne. This method is less invasive and typically more budget-friendly than removal. However, it’s a temporary solution and might limit future renovations.
Professional scraping & removal
Complete removal involves carefully scraping away the asbestos popcorn texture and properly disposing of the hazardous material. While more costly, this option permanently eliminates the asbestos risk, making it the ideal choice for those planning extensive home improvements or wanting long-term safety.
Get in touch with Colorado’s premier asbestos removal company
If you’re based in Colorado and looking to remove your asbestos popcorn ceilings, look no further. Our team at Mile High Environmental Services specializes in safe, efficient asbestos abatement services across the state. With years of experience under our belt and a variety of commercial and residential projects, we can help you protect your home and your family while delivering the highest quality service.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection and discuss the best abatement solution for your needs.
