Get matched with top percolation testing pros in Lennox, SD

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.

While asbestos can’t be directly absorbed through the skin—the fibers are too big—skin contact can still produce symptoms. Contact dermatitis can flare up in sensitive individuals but in most cases, the danger from asbestos comes from inhaling the fibers, or dust, that is produced when asbestos is disturbed. If you touch asbestos by accident, immediately wash yourself and your clothes.

Asbestos testing takes place in two stages—collection and lab testing. Collection can take less than 20 minutes if a professional manages to get a direct sample. If air samples are required, then the pro will set up a testing device and return to collect it. In both cases, the sample is sent to a lab and results are confirmed or denied usually within one to two days.

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.