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>

Do all popcorn ceilings have asbestos?

• <div><p>No, not all popcorn ceilings have asbestos, but a vast majority do. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned its use in 1973, although it still may have been used up through the early ‘90s. But, in general, homes built or remodeled before the early ‘80s likely utilized materials with asbestos. That being said, a professional test is the only way to determine for sure.</p></div>

Do I have to worry about a new popcorn ceiling having asbestos?

• <div><p>No, you do not have to worry about new popcorn ceilings having asbestos. All residential building materials used since the mid-1980s stopped including asbestos, so new popcorn ceilings have no risk of asbestos. You can still <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-to-texture-drywall.htm">create a textured drywall ceiling</a> with a popcorn texture if you like, but new techniques have no risk of adding asbestos. </p></div>

Get matched with top percolation testing pros in Saint James, NY

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your percolation testing project in Saint James, NY?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

TRUSTED BY SAINT JAMES, NY HOMEOWNERS

4.6
Average homeowner rating
2.6k+
Verified percolation testing services reviews

Verified Reviews for Percolation Testing pros in Saint James, NY

*The Angi rating for Percolation Testing companies in Saint James, NY is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Percolation Testing needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Percolation Testing companies in Saint James, NY is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Percolation Testing needs.

Last update on October 03, 2025

Find Percolation testing pros in Saint James

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)

Damaged tiles can release asbestos fibers into the air. Anyone in the surrounding area who may inhale the fibers will have them settled in the lining of internal organs. Over time, it may lead to serious health conditions such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.

The only safe way to prevent these conditions is to avoid exposure to asbestos at all costs, even for a short period of time.

No, not all popcorn ceilings have asbestos, but a vast majority do. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned its use in 1973, although it still may have been used up through the early ‘90s. But, in general, homes built or remodeled before the early ‘80s likely utilized materials with asbestos. That being said, a professional test is the only way to determine for sure.

It is strongly advised not to touch or disturb asbestos-containing materials unless necessary. Asbestos fibers can be released into the air when the material is damaged or disturbed, posing serious health risks if inhaled. It is best to leave any handling of asbestos to trained professionals who can remove the asbestos safely.

No, you do not have to worry about new popcorn ceilings having asbestos. All residential building materials used since the mid-1980s stopped including asbestos, so new popcorn ceilings have no risk of asbestos. You can still create a textured drywall ceiling with a popcorn texture if you like, but new techniques have no risk of adding asbestos.

The Saint James, NY 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.
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.
Dan Simms
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Soil Test vs. Perc Test: Which Do You Need?
Not sure what kind of testing you need for your land? Learn about the differences between a soil test vs. a perc test and when to order each of them.