Asbestos Popcorn Removal Cost + Process

2 Materials
$4500
2 Weeks
Medium
I'm a DIYer at heart but for me, asbestos removal is a NOT a DIY job. That being said, different states have different laws about asbestos removal in popcorn ceilings, flooring, siding and more, so make sure to look into it before you start the process of figuring out how/what to do about your asbestos. That being said, I always like hearing about what things cost and what the process is BEFORE I start looking into it myself. Hopefully, you find this information helpful!
Before we started our kitchen renovation, we knew that the ceilings were going to be a problem. We had an asbestos test done before we moved in on our popcorn ceilings and knew that they tested positive for asbestos.


*At the time of the test, we didn't know that you could take a sample yourself (in our state of Missouri). We paid $120 for a sample to be taken and the lab results to come back. Check with your state, but you can pick up sample kits at Lowe's or Home Depot and take the sample yourself, then you send it in and get the results sent directly to you. this will save you about $100.


Ok, so back to our kitchen (this picture is after the remodel). We knew that we were going to have to do something about the asbestos but didn't even know where to start.
After we took down part of the wall where the oven is in this picture, the ceiling had to be patched and the popcorn was discolored. We took down all the upper cabinets too and that really showed the difference in age of the popcorn from where the cabinets were hanging.
Here's a really good picture of the difference in color and how much the ceiling popcorn was noticeable.


To be honest, we were scared about the price of having the asbestos abated so we tried to patch the popcorn first. I'm so glad that it didn't patch perfectly because I would have NEVER been happy with it. That being said, it's a MUCH cheaper option.


So, let's get to how much asbestos abatement costs and what is in evolved.
* I took out all information for privacy but this quote is for a location in the state of Missouri.


I got three quotes and there was a swing of around $1500 between the three. All three quotes recommended the the drywall ceilings be removed completely. This would incur an extra cost because we would have to have all new drywall.


So, the price of $4,125 included the eat-in kitchen, kitchen, dining room and small master bathroom (approximately 800 sq feet). That price did NOT include the removal of the insulation above the spaces where the attic was, nor did it include new drywall installation and finishing.


So, as you can see, this project can cost a pretty little penny. However, the before and after and my peace of mind was well worth it.


If you want more details on exact drywall costs, insulation costs and more details about asbestos and why we did what we did... visit my blog post.


Suggested materials:
  • Drywall   (Lowes)
  • Plastic Sheeting   (Lowes)
Ashley@Biggerthanthethreeofus
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Go
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
Comments
Join the conversation
 4 comments
  • William William on Apr 04, 2018

    Great information. Makes me wonder how many DIY's removed popcorn ceilings, flooring, insulation that actually contained asbestos not knowing they had asbestos and the hazards. I for one. Being a former homebuilder, remodeler, and HVAC owner. My crews removed many popcorn ceilings way before final rules and regulations were enacted. Once the the EPA, OSHA, and other regulators set the laws the EPA permitted encapsulating asbestos products rather than abatement. Eventually we were able to cover popcorn ceilings with 4' X10' 1/4" drywall, which was made for the purpose, rather removal. If flooring containing asbestos was not damaged or disturbed it also could be encapsulated. One of the biggest asbestos hazards was vermiculite which is a mineral. It became a known fact that anywhere vermiculite was mined asbestos was present. Vermiculite was widely used as an insulation in attics, crawl spaces, and walls of older homes.

    • William, Yes! And, it's interesting to read about the different state laws as well because it varies from state to state.

  • Zac Builds Zac Builds on Apr 08, 2018

    Like William said, great info here. It's a shame asbestos was so widely used in the recent past. Many DIYers are unwittingly exposing themselves to a potentially harmful substance on a regular basis. Someone ought to develop a more rapid testing method, sending samples away to a lab, while extremely reliable, is a little cumbersome and very time consuming.


    I'm afraid many people just take the risk a lot of the time because they are impatient.


    Be safe out there people, no DIY project is worth your health.

Next