Is it safe to cover an asbestos popcorn ceiling?

• <div><p>Some pros may recommend covering a popcorn ceiling that tests positive for asbestos with beadboard ceiling planks or drywall. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-to-install-beadboard-over-popcorn-ceiling.htm">cost to install a beadboard ceiling</a> 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. </p></div>

Can I clean an asbestos popcorn ceiling?

• <div><p>If you know your popcorn ceiling has asbestos, you should not attempt to clean it. It simply is not possible to learn <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-clean-asbestos.htm">how to clean asbestos</a> safely without potentially releasing microscopic fibers into the air that could lead to severe illness in the future. Avoid disturbing or cleaning the ceiling until the asbestos removal company can get rid of the popcorn ceiling.</p></div>

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Q: What does water do to asbestos?

• <div><p>Asbestos-containing materials are not easily affected by water and do not disintegrate or dissolve when exposed to it. However, porous materials can deteriorate due to water exposure, leading to the release of asbestos fibers into the air. The settling of asbestos fibers can also occur as water makes them heavy, which reduces the risk of airborne exposure, though future disturbance of the materials could cause risk. Wetting asbestos-containing materials does not constitute safe removal, and the proper handling and disposal of asbestos materials should be left to professionals.</p></div>

Q: What are the health risks of asbestos?

• <div><p>Asbestos is a carcinogen, meaning it increases the risk of cancer. Inhaling asbestos fibers is linked to several respiratory issues, including asbestosis, or scarring on the lungs, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, another type of cancer. There's also a link between asbestos exposure and an increased risk of colon cancer and other cancers of the digestive system.</p><p>Usually, the people most at risk for disease related to asbestos exposure are those who spend a lot of time working around the material without protection. Electricians who work with asbestos wire have a higher risk of developing mesothelioma or lung cancer due to their exposure.</p></div>

Q: Can you cover asbestos tile with carpet?

• <div><p>While it's possible to cover asbestos tile with carpet, it's not recommended. Encapsulating tile beneath carpet doesn't eliminate the health risks. Over time, the asbestos tiles could degrade, releasing fibers into the air and potentially contaminating the carpet. Disturbance during carpet installation or removal might also release fibers.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Asbestos Abatement pros in Detroit Lakes, MN

*The Angi rating for Asbestos Abatement companies in Detroit Lakes, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Asbestos Abatement needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Asbestos Abatement companies in Detroit Lakes, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Asbestos Abatement needs.

Last update on November 16, 2025

Reviewed in December 2024
Yes, they got it done but was delayed due to neighbors interest in removing trees
Westy inc
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Reviewed in September 2024
This is a land clearing service, to remove trees and other vegetation. From predominantly agricultural land.
Root Land Management
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Reviewed in June 2024
We hired Elite Excavation to remove a tree from our cabin roof...very nice guys, work was done quickly and efficiently. As the cabin is a work in progress, we will keep Elite's nomber on hand for other jobs we will have a need for in the future. Thank you for a job well done!
Elite Excavation
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Reviewed in April 2023
Professional, friendly, comprehensive tree removal service. Planning on using them again on another project.
Ellingson's Tree Service
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Reviewed in January 2023
John responded quickly to my phone call and was very prompt with looking at the concern of asbestos tiles. He was ver professional and knowledgeable with the abatement process! Would highly recommend John!
JMAX Specialty Contracting, Inc.
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Reviewed in May 2017
VP tree service did an amazing job removing a tree close to the house that was rotting and dying. They are reasonable with their prices and easy to get a hold of. Very professional fast, and neat in getting the work done.
vp tree service
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Reviewed in November 2015
The brick was stained with soot from many years ago. Much of the stain was removed after cleaning it twice. It came out better than I expected.
SERVICE MASTER CO
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Reviewed in March 2014
The old door was very rusted and had come away from the house, so there were large gaps for water and critters to enter. They removed the old door and installed the new one including all the trim to seal it up. We went with the unfinished door and had to paint it, which wasn't a big deal and...
CT Cellar Doors
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Reviewed in May 2013
Dave quoted me about $800 for tree and stump removal and I told him to go ahead. I got the bill and it was $1400 and we haven't even done the stump removal yet because I said we could get it later. So once I pay to have the stump removed I will have spent probably twice as much as was quoted. ...
Dave's Tree Care
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Reviewed in August 2011
They are very reliable, always do good work. If the lawn doesn’t need mowing they are just fine with not charging us for that week. They remove snow for us as well. If we call them they will come out right away. They have great customer service.
Nathan Agard's Lawn Service LLC
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Asbestos Removal questions, answered by experts

Asbestos-containing materials are not easily affected by water and do not disintegrate or dissolve when exposed to it. However, porous materials can deteriorate due to water exposure, leading to the release of asbestos fibers into the air. The settling of asbestos fibers can also occur as water makes them heavy, which reduces the risk of airborne exposure, though future disturbance of the materials could cause risk. Wetting asbestos-containing materials does not constitute safe removal, and the proper handling and disposal of asbestos materials should be left to professionals.

Asbestos is a carcinogen, meaning it increases the risk of cancer. Inhaling asbestos fibers is linked to several respiratory issues, including asbestosis, or scarring on the lungs, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, another type of cancer. There's also a link between asbestos exposure and an increased risk of colon cancer and other cancers of the digestive system.

Usually, the people most at risk for disease related to asbestos exposure are those who spend a lot of time working around the material without protection. Electricians who work with asbestos wire have a higher risk of developing mesothelioma or lung cancer due to their exposure.

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.

If you know your popcorn ceiling has asbestos, you should not attempt to clean it. It simply is not possible to learn how to clean asbestos safely without potentially releasing microscopic fibers into the air that could lead to severe illness in the future. Avoid disturbing or cleaning the ceiling until the asbestos removal company can get rid of the popcorn ceiling.

While it's possible to cover asbestos tile with carpet, it's not recommended. Encapsulating tile beneath carpet doesn't eliminate the health risks. Over time, the asbestos tiles could degrade, releasing fibers into the air and potentially contaminating the carpet. Disturbance during carpet installation or removal might also release fibers.

The Detroit Lakes, MN homeowners’ guide to asbestos removal services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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Nov 10, 2025Nov 10, 2025
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How Much Does Asbestos Testing Cost? [2025 Data]
The cost of asbestos testing varies based on location, property size, test type, and other factors. Here’s a breakdown of the costs to conduct an asbestos survey.
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Oct 21, 2025Oct 21, 2025
How Much Does Asbestos Tile Removal Cost? [2025 Data]
Get clear answers on asbestos tile removal cost, including average prices, cost factors, and tips to save money on safe, professional removal.
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Nov 10, 2025Nov 10, 2025
How to Cover Asbestos Tile on Floors Safely
If you need to cover asbestos tiles, you must do it safely. Learn why hiring a professional to carry out both inspection and work is the only recommended option.
Jacqueline DeMarco
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Nov 10, 2025Nov 10, 2025
The Dangers of Asbestos Exposure
If you think asbestos may be lurking in your home, keep reading to learn about the dangers of asbestos exposure before you take any action.
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Nov 6, 2025Nov 6, 2025
The Warning Signs of Asbestos Carpet Underlay
If your carpet was installed before 1980, you may have asbestos carpet underlay in your home. Learn how to identify the signs, and keep your risk low.