Should I be concerned about asbestos and lead in my textured ceilings from 1908 during the renovation process, especially with a potential leak?
Asked by Carmen Neal 
2 months ago
Last Updated: October 23, 2024
I’ve been thinking about getting the textured ceilings in my dining room and living room redone. I have a contact who can do the job. My house was built in 1908, so there’s a possibility of asbestos or lead in the paint, even though it wasn’t mentioned in the inspection. Do you think I should have it tested? And if it does have lead, can it still be safely redone?
There’s also a part of the ceiling that looks like it had a leak before, and the paint is starting to flake. Do you think it’s safe to start working on that area?
My daughter’s house was also constructed in 1904, and fortunately, our asbestos test came back negative. If the paint is peeling, wear a mask, dampen it, and remove loose pieces with a scraper or putty knife before refinishing with a skim coat.
As long as it doesn’t contain asbestos, .
Yes, it’s a good idea to have it checked. But if it’s from 1904, you’re probably fine (insulating pipes is a different story).
If the test comes back positive and it’s stable, you can just apply a skim coat and paint over it. If you decide to have it removed, make sure to hire professionals, but it will be costly.
Regarding the paint, I really doubt they used lead paint on the ceiling. It’s more common for windows, siding, and commercial purposes. If it does contain lead, you’ll need to take precautions, but it’s not as hazardous as asbestos.
Thanks for the advice.
I have a couple of issues with my ceiling too.
One is a crack and the other appears to be from previous water damage. Do you think this will pose a problem?
Collect two samples for testing – one for asbestos and one for lead paint. If either is present, handle it correctly. Get quotes from multiple environmental abatement contractors. A standard home inspection does not cover environmental hazard testing. If lead or asbestos is detected, do not attempt to DIY. Be cautious of online advice unless the source has valid credentials. In some areas, failure to disclose hazardous materials after testing can lead to legal consequences. Keep this in mind if you test but do not remove any hazardous substances.
Thanks a lot. I’m planning to head to the local hardware store to get some tests. I’m curious though, would it be okay to just cover it with drywall?
You can simply cover it with drywall, but if the test comes back positive, you should follow Asbestos procedures when fastening through it. (Screws can release ACM fibers into the air). In certain areas, it’s mandatory to disclose the presence of asbestos when selling a property.
👆 oh yeah, I recently finished a framing job for a homeowner who attempted DIY demo in one room of his house. He decided to go the do-it-yourself route and now his entire home and all his possessions are contaminated with lead. You can find lead test kits at big box stores for around $5 in the paint section. Just make a small tear drop shaped cut through ALL layers of existing paint and proceed with the instructions in the kit. But let me tell you from my experience in the remediation industry, in a house that old, you definitely have lead paint. It’s best not to remove it, especially on your own. 95% of the time, it’s safer and more cost-effective to leave it and properly encapsulate it.