Understanding the Risk of Asbestos in a Popcorn Ceiling
In the late 1980s, the Environmental Protection Agency banned the use of asbestos or asbestos-containing products in the United States. A few years after the initial ban, a court overturned the regulation limiting the ban to only the new use of asbestos-containing products. Unfortunately, this means that many homes and businesses even built in the 80s and 90s contain asbestos throughout the property including popcorn ceilings.
At Bailey Cowan Heckaman PLLC we represent individuals who have been diagnosed with or lost a loved one to asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma. Our lawyers have secured millions of dollars for mesothelioma victims nationwide and will work tirelessly to obtain the largest possible recovery for you and your family. If you were diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, contact our office at (888) 367-7160 to schedule a free consultation.
The Risk of Asbestos in Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings were popular in homes across the country for decades. The trend, according to Insider, dates back to the 1930s and remained in style until the 1990s. The textured covering utilized to hide ceiling imperfections and reduce noise became outdated before the turn of the century.
Other names for popcorn ceilings include:
- Acoustic ceilings
- Stucco ceilings
- Cottage cheese ceilings
- Stipple ceilings
Unfortunately, what many homeowners never knew was that their ceilings contained a deadly toxic substance known as asbestos. While asbestos-containing products were eventually banned by the Environmental Protection Agency, they were used for decades. Many homes still contain asbestos-laden popcorn ceilings.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a term used to describe six “naturally occurring fibrous minerals.” Because of its versatility, it was commonly used in construction materials (such as ceiling plaster) beginning as early as the 1800s. The substance is toxic to humans when inhaled.
Health risks associated with asbestos exposure:
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
- Lung damage
- Lung cancer
- Severe chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Respiratory illnesses
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, you might be entitled to compensation. It is essential to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
How Common Is Asbestos in Popcorn Ceilings?
Due to its widespread use, it is presumed that most structures built before the 1980s contain asbestos. Popcorn ceilings, for instance, are expected to contain between 1% to 10% asbestos.
Left undisturbed, asbestos is usually not harmful. However, with the desire to remove these perceived eyesores, the risk of asbestos exposure increases significantly.
If you are getting a popcorn ceiling scraped, it is imperative that you contact a licensed asbestos abatement company that can properly remove and dispose of asbestos-containing products.
Were You or a Loved One Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
After a mesothelioma diagnosis, you may be unsure of where to turn. Our attorneys can help review your case to determine if there is a valid cause of action. We will walk you through your legal options including filing a lawsuit against a liable party.
If you were diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, contact our office at (888) 367-7160 to schedule a free consultation. There are no fees unless we win. Call now to speak with a member of our legal team.