Popcorn ceilings are tested first, then handled with methods that protect health and the building. When asbestos is confirmed, licensed abatement uses containment, negative air, wet removal, and HEPA filtration, followed by independent clearance. If testing is clear, texture is removed conventionally, the surface is skim‑coated, and the ceiling is finished smooth or lightly textured, then primed and painted.
Overview
- Scope: sampling and lab testing, licensed asbestos abatement where required, non‑asbestos popcorn removal, encapsulation or cover‑over options, surface repair and skim coat, primer and paint.
- Goals: verified air quality, compliant disposal, clean ceilings with flat planes and crisp lines at trims and fixtures.
- Settings: single rooms, whole homes, occupied remodels, and vacant turnarounds.
What This Service Includes
- Testing & assessment: representative samples taken by qualified personnel; accredited lab analysis; report used to guide next steps.
- Abatement (if asbestos present): containment with poly barriers, negative pressure, wet methods, HEPA filtration, regulated waste handling, and third‑party clearance air testing.
- Non‑asbestos removal: controlled scrape with protection and cleanup; surface repairs; skim coat to Level 4–5 in critical light areas; texture options on request.
- Finishing: stain‑blocking or high‑build primer, sanding touch‑ups, and final ceiling paint in selected sheen.
- Documentation: chain‑of‑custody lab reports, disposal manifests, and clearance results retained with project records.
Alternatives: Encapsulation & Cover‑Over
- Encapsulation: approved coatings applied to lock fibers in place when removal is not practical; edges and penetrations sealed.
- Cover‑over: new drywall installed over existing texture with perimeter fire‑blocking where required; taped, skim‑coated, and finished.
- Approach chosen by condition, access, schedule, and regulatory requirements.
Standards & Compliance
- Licensed abatement teams and supervisors where asbestos is present; procedures aligned with applicable OSHA/EPA and local regulations.
- Containment integrity, negative air, and HEPA filtration maintained throughout active work.
- Waste double‑bagged and documented to approved facilities; clearance air testing completed before re‑occupancy.
Sequencing & Coordination
- Testing performed before any disturbance; abatement scheduled with permit/notification lead times where required.
- Occupied areas isolated; HVAC protected or shut during active work; re‑occupancy follows clearance.
Quality Markers
- Independent clearance meets specified thresholds; no visible residue in raking light.
- Ceilings read flat with uniform primer coverage; joints and fasteners disappear after paint.
- Edges at casings and lights are crisp and consistent; vents and penetrations resealed neatly.
Safety Notes
- Suspected asbestos should not be disturbed before testing; only licensed abatement personnel handle confirmed materials.
- Work zones remain off‑limits to occupants during abatement; signage and barriers maintained until clearance.
- Records of testing, disposal, and clearance kept with project documents for future reference.
