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Some pros may recommend covering a popcorn ceiling that tests positive for asbestos with beadboard ceiling planks or drywall. The cost to install a beadboard ceiling averages more than $5,000, but you likely will pay more than the average for the installer to deal with the asbestos safely. Installing a beadboard ceiling or new drywall will disturb the asbestos and release some microscopic fibers, so the installer will need to take precautions. 

The cost for asbestos testing typically ranges from $400 to $800. The final price depends on several factors, including the number of samples needed, the size and age of the property, and the professional's expertise required for comprehensive testing. Larger or older properties may have higher costs.

Even a single, one-time exposure to asbestos can be harmful and pose health risks. According to the EPA, any contact can increase the risk of developing asbestos-related diseases and certain types of cancer, although the likelihood of severe health issues increases with repeated or prolonged exposure.

The severity of a single exposure depends on factors like the duration, intensity, and concentration of the asbestos fibers. While a small amount is less likely to cause significant damage, a high concentration can lead to serious long-term lung damage. Individual reactions vary, and asbestos-related illnesses may not appear for 10 to 40 years after inhalation.

Given these risks, always take precautions around any material suspected to contain asbestos. Personal protective equipment (PPE) may not be completely effective. If you suspect asbestos is in your home, hire a professional for testing and removal. If you are worried about a potential exposure, consult your doctor.

Although the use of asbestos has declined since the 1980s, it remains in several different types of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire retardant. Typically, asbestos can be found in materials such as ceiling and floor tiles, heat-resistant fabrics and coatings, and roof shingles. You may also find asbestos in textured paint and patching compounds.