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Many homes built in the late 1930s through the 1990s have popcorn ceilings or some type of texture applied overhead. It was used to cover up a lot of flaws in the ceiling. It was time-effective and cost-efficient. Often called an acoustic ceiling, it also served the purpose to absorb sound and reduce noise.
Why are popcorn ceilings so terrible?
The main issue with popcorn ceilings is that they contain asbestos. Homes built before the 1970s likely have popcorn ceilings that contain asbestos. However, the ban did not state that asbestos-containing popcorn texture could not be used. This meant that there were many who still utilized it well into the 1980s.
Is it worth removing popcorn ceiling?
If you discover that your popcorn ceilings contain asbestos, don’t panic—and don’t try to remove it yourself. Removing it will cause the particles to escape into the air, making it easy for you and your family to breathe in the carcinogens.
Is it safe to live with popcorn ceiling?
The ceiling will not endanger your health as long as it remains completely undisturbed or properly encapsulated. In the long run, having it professionally removed is the safest choice. A higher percentage of asbestos is worse, but popcorn ceiling is dangerous even if it is just a few percent asbestos.
Do all popcorn ceilings have asbestos?
Do All Popcorn Ceilings Have Asbestos? So, in 1977, the U.S. government banned the use of asbestos in ceilings and most ceilings installed after this date, would not contain any asbestos. So, yes, most popcorn ceilings have asbestos, especially if they were installed before 1977 or the ban.
Is it OK to drywall over popcorn ceiling?
Covering the ceiling with drywall is a very inexpensive option, but it can be hard work to lift and attach 8-foot-long drywall panels overhead, unless you rent a special drywall lifting tool. Installing drywall also requires finishing skills that are challenging for many DIYers.
Are popcorn ceilings coming back in style?
No. When left intact and undisturbed, these materials do not pose a health risk to people living in it. Despite the outdated style, and, well, asbestos, popcorn ceilings still top many homes throughout the US. But, if you are looking into buying a new property, you’re going to want that sucker gone.
What is the cheapest way to cover a ceiling?
Here are some affordable ways to beautify your home’s ceilings: Paint. It’s a great way to change the perception of your space. Tin Tiles. Hide damage and uneven surfaces with tin ceiling tiles that introduce a vintage vibe. Moldings and More. Tiles or Planks.
When did they stop putting asbestos in popcorn ceilings?
In 1977, the U.S. Government banned the use of asbestos in ceiling finishes, and most ceilings installed after this date will not contain asbestos. It is still possible, however, that materials manufactured before 1977 were installed in homes after the ban.
How can I tell if my popcorn ceiling has asbestos?
You can test a popcorn ceiling for the presence of asbestos by carefully scraping a small sample into a plastic bag and having it tested at an EPA-accredited lab. While homeowners are allowed to remove a popcorn ceiling that contains the material, a professional asbestos remediation company should do the job.
Can you paint over popcorn ceiling?
Interior acrylic-latex paint is the best type of paint to use for popcorn ceilings. If you need to protect your ceiling from moisture, though, use eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss paint sheens. Popcorn texture ceilings require more paint than flat ceilings.
Was asbestos used in popcorn ceilings in 1973?
Asbestos popcorn ceilings were popular between 1945 and the 1990s. Asbestos was officially banned from ceiling coverings in 1973. However, previously manufactured asbestos-containing products may have been installed in homes into the 1990s.
Was asbestos used in popcorn ceilings in 1979?
Asbestos is a mineral fiber. It was present in many products used in home construction, including acoustic (popcorn) ceilings. The use of asbestos in ceilings was banned in 1975 and was out of the material by 1979. If your home was built prior to 1979 you must have your popcorn ceiling tested.
How much does it cost to remove popcorn ceiling?
Professionals often charge $1 to $2 per square foot or $15 to $40 per hour. A 500-square-foot project may cost between $300 and $750. Removal of popcorn ceilings throughout an entire one-story house typically costs $900 to $2,840.
How do you modernize a popcorn ceiling?
When looking for a way to dress up a ceiling with texture while also hiding that popcorn texture, consider adding wood or wood paneling. Covering the ceiling with tongue and groove wood planks, bead board, or another rustic wood plank or panel is a creative way to add interest to the ceiling and update the space.
Is it cheaper to remove popcorn ceiling or cover it?
Choosing to simply cover your popcorn ceiling (otherwise known as textured ceiling) as opposed to removing it entirely could help you save a lot of time and money in the long run. This is why it is so important to make sure you test for asbestos when even thinking about removing a textured ceiling.
Why did popcorn ceilings go out of style?
Popcorn ceilings, in pre-1970s and early formulations, often contained white asbestos fibers. When asbestos was banned in ceiling treatments by the Clean Air Act in the United States, popcorn ceilings fell out of favor in much of the country.
Are stamped ceilings out of style?
Although textured ceilings are currently used in many homes, some people might view its appearance as outdated or unappealing. If you’re looking to make your house look as contemporary as possible, this is something to keep in mind.
What can I use to replace popcorn ceiling?
One of the simplest alternatives to popcorn ceiling is replacing the drywall on your ceiling. You can either remove the popcorn ceiling first or simply add the drywall on top of your existing ceiling. While your ceiling will be a little bit lower than it was before, it will be hardly noticeable.
