Dangers of Cottage Cheese Ceilings

History

• Beginning in the early 1950s, acoustic ceilings provided an easy solution to problem ceilings. The cottage cheese texture could cover cracks, stains or uneven ceilings. It was also inexpensive, increasing its use. Because it had some sound-deadening qualities, it was sometimes used in new home construction. Currently, textured ceilings have fallen from favor, and homeowners who have this type of ceiling often want to replace it.

Asbestos

• Asbestos is a mineral that was valued for construction materials because of its strength, insulating properties and resistance to fire. Problems began when it became clear that asbestos could cause cancer if inhaled. The use of asbestos for manufacturing cottage cheese ceilings was banned in 1978. However, it was still legal to use existing stores, so asbestos-containing material was used into the 1980s.

Identification

• It is impossible to tell if your ceiling contains asbestos just from the date of application. If you suspect that a cottage cheese ceiling in your home may contain asbestos, lab testing can confirm this. Homeowners can collect samples, but specially trained lab workers know how to take samples safely. Once the samples are collected, the lab can determine if there is asbestos and how much.

Dangers

• If a ceiling in your home contains asbestos, don't panic. The asbestos only becomes dangerous if particles are released from the ceiling and fly around in the air. Ceilings in good condition can safely be left in place. Take simple precautions to ensure that the ceiling does not get damaged. Do not clean or disturb it for any reason.

Removal

• If the ceiling condition warrants removal, leave it to the professionals. While removal by a homeowner is possible, it can go wrong and expose people to asbestos. The process involves taping plastic on walls and floors so that water can be sprayed on the ceiling. Water keeps dangerous dust from forming. Special protective gear, such as breathing masks and suits, make the removal process difficult and hot. If something goes wrong during a professional removal, the technicians have the equipment to remedy the situation.