Baron and Budd Warns About Asbestos in Popcorn Ceilings

Consumer Alert: Removing Dated Ceiling Treatment May Release Deadly Toxin

DALLAS (September 30, 2011) –Baron and Budd is warning homeowners and other residents about the potential hazards of asbestos in popcorn ceilings, a type of spray-on treatment that was once popular for its highly textured look. Left alone and intact, the ceiling material is not dangerous, but replacing a popcorn ceiling requires expert skill and abatement so that asbestos fibers are not released and inhaled.

"People need to be incredibly careful when they remodel and decide to change the look of a popcorn ceiling, because most of the materials used in these ceilings prior to 1979 contained asbestos," said mesothelioma attorney at Baron and Budd. "Any sanding or cutting of the materials risks the release of asbestos fibers if the work is not done by technicians accustomed to asbestos abatement procedures."

"Popcorn ceiling" is the name given to a spray-on or paint-on ceiling treatment used in homes and other residences built between the 1950s and the 1980s. Since it was less expensive than painting, the technique was popular in residential construction. The treatment could be quickly and easily sprayed on during new construction and was very useful in hiding stains, uneven ceilings, poor workmanship or other defects.

Unfortunately, the texture often contained asbestos, a known toxin that has been linked to cancer and other diseases. However, many homeowners are not aware of the risk associated with popcorn ceiling remodeling and do not take proper safeguards.

"The look of a new ceiling is just not worth the terrible health risks, like mesothelioma, associated with sanding, cutting or otherwise disturbing the ceiling," said Baron & Budd shareholder. "We especially hope that young homeowners who want to restore older homes understand the danger and take the appropriate precautions."

For additional information on asbestos testing or asbestos removal, check out the Environmental Protection Agency’s guide to asbestos.

About Baron & Budd, P.C.

The national mesothelioma law firm of Baron & Budd, P.C. has a more than 30-year history of "Protecting What’s Right" for asbestos sufferers and their families. As one of the first law firms to successfully litigate an asbestos lawsuit, Baron & Budd continues to actively represent veterans, industry workers and others who are suffering as a result of exposure to asbestos. Baron & Budd achieved the largest mesothelioma verdict ever in the state of Texas, a $55 million verdict for an asbestos sufferer and his family in El Paso, Texas. Contact Baron and Budd at 1.866.855.1229 for additional information on medical treatments, mesothelioma cancer doctors and treatment centers, high risk jobs, veterans issues and financial assistance for asbestos cancer care.