Popcorn ceilings, sometimes called acoustic ceilings or cottage cheese ceilings, were a popular design choice in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico from the 1950s through the 1980s. Builders used them because they were inexpensive, quick to apply, and effective at hiding imperfections. The textured surface also provided noise reduction, which made it a common feature in bedrooms, living rooms, and hallways across the Southwest.
But what many Albuquerque homeowners don’t realize is that these ceilings may hide a serious health hazard—asbestos. If your home still has popcorn ceilings, especially if it was built before 1985, it’s important to understand the risks and know when to call in professionals for testing and safe removal.
Why Popcorn Ceilings Are a Concern in Albuquerque
For decades, asbestos was widely used in construction materials across New Mexico because it was durable, inexpensive, and fire-resistant. Unfortunately, the health dangers of asbestos weren’t well understood at the time. Popcorn ceilings were often created using compounds that contained asbestos fibers.
The risk comes when ceilings are disturbed—something that can easily happen during home improvement projects, repairs, or even regular wear and tear. In Albuquerque, where many older neighborhoods still feature original popcorn ceilings, this is a common concern for homeowners.
When disturbed, asbestos fibers become airborne and can be inhaled. These microscopic fibers can lodge in the lungs and cause serious illnesses over time, including:
- Asbestosis – a chronic lung disease that scars lung tissue.
- Mesothelioma – a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
- Lung cancer – an increased risk, especially among smokers exposed to asbestos.
For Albuquerque families, keeping asbestos out of the air inside your home is essential for long-term health and safety.
How to Tell if Your Ceiling Contains Asbestos
If your Albuquerque home was built before the late 1980s, there’s a chance your popcorn ceiling contains asbestos. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to know just by looking. The texture appears the same whether asbestos is present or not.
The only way to be sure is through professional asbestos testing. Certified inspectors can collect small samples and send them to a lab for analysis. Once you know whether asbestos is present, you can make an informed decision about removal or encapsulation.
Tip for Albuquerque homeowners: If your house is in older parts of town—such as Nob Hill, the North Valley, or neighborhoods near the University—it’s especially important to test before tackling renovations.
Why Albuquerque Homeowners Should Avoid DIY Removal
It might be tempting to scrape off your popcorn ceiling yourself. However, disturbing asbestos without professional equipment and training is extremely dangerous. DIY removal can:
- Release thousands of asbestos fibers into the air.
- Spread contamination throughout your home’s HVAC system, furniture, and flooring.
- Put your family at risk of long-term health complications.
Even if your ceiling turns out not to contain asbestos, removal is a messy and difficult project. That’s why Albuquerque homeowners are encouraged to call in asbestos professionals who know how to handle the job safely and effectively.
Why Choose Asbestos Experts in Albuquerque
At Asbestos Experts, we proudly serve Albuquerque and all of New Mexico with certified asbestos testing and safe removal services. Our team follows strict state and federal safety guidelines to ensure asbestos is contained and disposed of properly.
Here’s what Albuquerque property owners can expect from our process:
- Inspection & testing – to confirm whether asbestos is present in your ceiling.
- Containment – sealing off the area to prevent asbestos fibers from spreading.
- Safe removal – using industry-approved equipment and protective gear.
- Disposal – transporting and disposing of asbestos waste according to New Mexico regulations and federal requirements.
- Air quality testing – making sure your home is clean and safe before re-entry.
Our licensed professionals have years of experience working in Albuquerque homes and businesses and know how to keep families safe while improving property value.
Should You Remove Your Popcorn Ceiling?
Some Albuquerque property owners consider leaving their popcorn ceilings untouched if asbestos is present. While encapsulation (sealing it with paint) is sometimes an option, removal is often the safer and smarter choice for long-term peace of mind.
Benefits of popcorn ceiling removal in Albuquerque include:
- Health & safety – eliminating the risk of asbestos exposure for good.
- Modern home appeal – smooth ceilings instantly update a room’s appearance.
- Higher property value – many Albuquerque homebuyers shy away from popcorn ceilings, especially if asbestos is suspected.
- Remodeling readiness – safer future renovations without the risk of disturbing asbestos.
By removing asbestos-containing popcorn ceilings, Albuquerque homeowners can create a healthier and more attractive living space.
FAQs About Popcorn Ceilings and Asbestos in Albuquerque
Do all popcorn ceilings in Albuquerque contain asbestos?
No. Some ceilings installed after 1985 may not contain asbestos. But in older homes throughout Albuquerque, asbestos was common. Testing is the only way to be certain.
How much does asbestos testing cost?
Testing is affordable and provides peace of mind. The starting price for the Albuquerque area is $375+ tax!
Can I just paint over my popcorn ceiling instead of removing it?
Applying a paint brush to the materials would be disturbing them, or making them airborne and unsafe. Professional removal is the best long-term option.
How long does professional popcorn ceiling removal take?
Most Albuquerque projects can be completed in a few days, depending on the size of the home and number of rooms. Our team works efficiently while prioritizing safety.
Take the First Step: Call Asbestos Experts in Albuquerque
Popcorn ceilings might look like an outdated design trend, but in Albuquerque homes, they could pose a serious health risk if asbestos is present. Don’t put your family’s health in jeopardy.
The first step is simple—schedule a professional asbestos test with Asbestos Experts. If asbestos is found, our licensed team will handle safe removal from start to finish, ensuring your Albuquerque home is safe, modern, and free from hidden dangers.
Contact Asbestos Experts today to schedule your inspection and protect your home for the future.