Popular in mid-century architecture, popcorn ceilings have gone out of fashion, causing many new homeowners to want to remove the texture. Scraping away the little bubbles may not seem like a very difficult challenge, but the dust that this kind of work creates--especially if it contains asbestos or lead--can affect your health for years to come.
Asbestos
Popcorn ceilings installed from the 1950s to 1980s are likely to contain asbestos, a fire-resistant mineral used for insulating homes. In 1978, it was outlawed, but many builders continued to use materials that were already infused with asbestos well into the 1980s. The dangerous fibers were proven to be potentially harmful to the lungs if ingested. In fact, shards of asbestos dust, when inhaled, can rip and tear the inside of the lungs and cause certain varieties of lung cancer. The evidence of asbestos-related diseases can take several years to become apparent. A popcorn ceiling can release asbestos when bits of the ceiling fall or when the texture is ripped out and particles are released into the air. If your home is at risk for asbestos, you should have professionals remove the popcorn ceiling for you.
Lead
Paint and popcorn ceiling texture from the early and mid-20th century are also at risk of containing lead, a chemical that can cause brain damage and learning disabilities. Lead dust can be released by scraping a popcorn ceiling that has been painted with lead paint, for example. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends hiring a lead abatement contractor to get rid of possible hazards from lead in your .
Dust
The general dust that popcorn ceilings can produce with a settling of the house or the odd touch can also be hazardous to your lungs. If you choose to remove the popcorn, you may find yourself breathing in the dust and awakening allergens or sensitive nostrils to all manner of hazards.
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