If you are renovating a home or business with popcorn ceilings in San Jose, CA, be sure to call Benchmark Environmental Engineering for asbestos inspection and testing. Exposing yourself to asbestos fibers by removing an untested ceiling is not worth the health risks.
Asbestos: A Natural Health Hazard
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. After it is mined, it can be crushed and combined with a binder to create ACMs or asbestos-containing materials. ACMs were popular with builders in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, due to their strength, flexibility, and flame-retardant properties. Asbestos is a common component of popcorn ceilings.
Unfortunately, medical professionals eventually discovered that breathing asbestos fibers can cause or contribute to many diseases, such as:
- Asbestosis – a scarring of the fibrous tissues of the lungs.
- Mesothelioma – a cancer of the lining of the chest and abdominal cavity.
- Laryngeal Cancer
- Lung Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
Popcorn Ceilings & Asbestos
Many older homes contain textured ceilings, popularly known as popcorn ceilings, due to their bubbly appearance. Popcorn ceilings installed before 1978 are more likely candidates for asbestos. Even newer popcorn ceilings can contain asbestos. If you are going to replace your popcorn ceiling in the San Jose, CA, area, let us assess your asbestos exposure risk before you start the removal process.
When To Have Your Popcorn Ceiling Inspected
- If You Plan To Remove It
- If It Is Cracked Or Damaged
- If You Have Children Who Use Bunk Beds
- If You Want To Attach Things To Your Ceiling – Like A Hook For A Houseplant
- If Pieces Start To Crumble Off
- If You Use High Furniture, Like Bookshelves – Which Can Scrape The Ceiling
Who Is At Risk For Asbestos Exposure?
Builders and construction workers are at a higher risk than the general population. Undertaking home renovation or demolition projects without proper asbestos testing and inspection can put you and your entire household at risk.
Symptoms Of Asbestos Exposure
It can take twenty or more years for asbestos-related diseases to develop. The signs your body exhibits may not be noticeable right away or the same as someone else’s.
Some Symptoms Of Asbestos-Related Diseases
- Shortness Of Breath
- Wheezing, Noisy Breathing
- Chest Tightness & Pain
- Fluid Build-Up In The Lungs
- Asbestosis
- Loss Of Appetite
- Deformities Of Fingernails & Toenails
Protect Yourself With Expert Testing
You can’t tell whether your popcorn ceiling contains asbestos just by looking at it. Removing a popcorn ceiling without proper inspection and testing can have severe repercussions for anyone exposed. If you are in the San Jose, CA area and are ready to begin your home renovation, call Benchmark Environmental Engineering for professional asbestos inspection and testing.