How to Identify Popcorn Ceiling Asbestos at Your Property

For much of the 20th century, ‘popcorn ceilings’ - ceilings that have an uneven texture, resembling popcorn or cottage cheese - were frequently found in British homes. Such ceilings can still be found today, especially in areas such as entrance hallways and bedrooms. Unfortunately, many will also contain asbestos. 

It’s widely known that exposure to asbestos is associated with the later development of fatal diseases such as mesothelioma, so it’s crucial to be vigilant about the potential of popcorn ceiling asbestos at your property and mitigate the risks it poses. 

How to Identify Asbestos in Your Popcorn Ceiling

While it’s good to know what a popcorn ceiling looks like, the fact is that you won’t be able to tell from sight alone whether yours contains asbestos or not. A textured ceiling with asbestos will look much the same as one that doesn’t contain harmful fibres. This means that you’re unlikely to know whether there is an asbestos presence, unless there is scope for a sample to be taken and analysed. 

However, even the process of doing this poses many risks, so we recommend that you contact a professional who can perform a proper asbestos survey, or at least advice on how to safely identify asbestos in your ceiling. 

What Should I Do If My Popcorn Ceiling Contains Asbestos?

The unfortunate reality is that if your property was constructed prior to 2000, it’s highly likely that there is asbestos in your popcorn ceiling. While this isn’t necessarily dangerous in itself - if left undisturbed, asbestos fibres are pretty harmless - once you are aware of its presence you should adopt ‘common sense’ measures, such as not scraping the ceiling or using any nails or screws in popcorn ceilings. 

While you might imagine that your popcorn ceilings are unlikely to be disturbed unless you carry out work on the property, it’s also worth thinking about elements out of your control, such as adverse weather conditions and natural wear and tear. An asbestos expert will be able to determine whether your popcorn ceiling is best left alone and covered, or whether asbestos removal is necessary. 

Looking for Popcorn Ceiling Asbestos Treatment in Edinburgh?

If you’re looking for help with asbestos removal in the Edinburgh area, look no further than Gowrie Contracts. Dealing with asbestos in any volume requires asbestos experts on the scene and we’re on hand to help. We’ll carefully assess the area and find the most efficient solution for your home or commercial property in Edinburgh. We hold a three-year asbestos licence issued by the Health and Safety Executive, and we always put the health and safety of our customers at the forefront of everything we do. Get in touch with our team today for more information.