How long does it take for asbestos to harm you?

• <div><p>According to the National Cancer Institute, asbestos-related diseases can take anywhere from <b>10 to 40 years</b> for symptoms to appear. The health risks increase with prolonged and heavier exposure. Risk factors also include:</p><ul><li><p>Amount of exposure</p></li><li><p>Chemical makeup, size, and shape of the asbestos fibers</p></li><li><p>Length of time a person is exposed to asbestos</p></li><li><p>Genetic factors </p></li><li><p>Source of exposure (direct exposure or secondhand exposure from someone directly exposed)</p></li></ul><p></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>

How do I prepare for asbestos testing?

• <div><p>Clear the area for access and inform the testing team about the building’s history and renovations.</p></div>

Get matched with top percolation testing pros in Lakota, ND

Q: How can you test to tell if a popcorn ceiling has asbestos?

• <div><p>When learning <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-test-for-asbestos-in-popcorn-ceiling.htm">how to test for asbestos in a popcorn ceiling</a>, you have an option for a DIY job or to hire a professional tester. You can purchase a kit at a hardware store and use personal protective equipment while doing the test. If you don&rsquo;t want to risk any potential exposure to asbestos, hire a professional asbestos testing company instead.</p></div>

Q: Is asbestos cancerous?

• <div><p>Asbestos is absolutely cancerous. In fact, around 4% of all lung cancer cases are the result of asbestos exposure. This is why we recommend a full, professional removal and cleaning of any asbestos found in your home. If you are unsure whether there is any present, you should call a pro who will inspect your property.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your percolation testing project in Lakota, ND?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Percolation testing pros in Lakota

No results for Percolation testing pro in

Try adjusting your search criteria.

Percolation Tests questions, answered by experts

According to the National Cancer Institute, asbestos-related diseases can take anywhere from 10 to 40 years for symptoms to appear. The health risks increase with prolonged and heavier exposure. Risk factors also include:

Amount of exposure
Chemical makeup, size, and shape of the asbestos fibers
Length of time a person is exposed to asbestos
Genetic factors
Source of exposure (direct exposure or secondhand exposure from someone directly exposed)

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.

When learning how to test for asbestos in a popcorn ceiling, you have an option for a DIY job or to hire a professional tester. You can purchase a kit at a hardware store and use personal protective equipment while doing the test. If you don’t want to risk any potential exposure to asbestos, hire a professional asbestos testing company instead.

Asbestos is absolutely cancerous. In fact, around 4% of all lung cancer cases are the result of asbestos exposure. This is why we recommend a full, professional removal and cleaning of any asbestos found in your home. If you are unsure whether there is any present, you should call a pro who will inspect your property.

Clear the area for access and inform the testing team about the building’s history and renovations.

The Lakota, ND homeowners’ guide to percolation testing services

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

See all articles

Alison Kasch
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does a Perc Test Cost? [2026 Data]
Most building projects and septic installations require soil testing to ensure proper drainage. Learn how much a perc test costs and what affects costs.
Mitchell Grant
•
Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Convert a Cesspool to a Septic System? [2026 Data]
The cost of converting a cesspool to a septic system depends on factors like labor, complexity, and materials. Use our guide to estimate your budget.
Dan Simms
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Soil Testing Cost? [2026 Data]
Find out how much a soil test costs and what you get for your money with our expert guide. Know what to budget for different types of soil tests.
Mitchell Grant
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
What Is a Perc Test for Septic Systems and Why Is It Necessary?
A perc test for septic analyzes the absorption rate of the soil where a tank is going to be installed. Learn more about the test, cost, and passing grades.
Kate Fann
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How to Test a Septic Drain Field’s Effectiveness
Learn how to test a septic drain field to ensure it’s functioning properly before encountering costly issues.
Dan Simms
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
When Is the Best Time to Do a Perc Test?
Not sure about the best time to do a perc test? Learn about factors that affect results and test costs to choose the ideal timing for your project.