Acoustic ceilings are those which have the ability to reduce the travel of sound running from one room or level to the next in a home. That’s why they were once popular in rooms such as bedrooms which require more quiet to allow residents to get some rest without being disturbed any others in the home who are still awake.

Acoustic ceilings are also referred to as cottage cheese ceilings, stucco ceilings, and popcorn ceilings, the last of which is the more common name for this type of ceiling material. In addition to their acoustic characteristics, popcorn ceilings or acoustic ceilings were also able to effectively hide flaws and were rather affordable to install.

These types of ceilings are made out of stucco material or something similar that is sprayed on using a specialized type of equipment. After it has dried, the appearance is a white, gritty finish.

However, today’s sophisticated homeowner isn’t fond of such ceilings and is more apt to choosing smoother, more modern finishes. Here are a few things to know about acoustic ceilings and why more and more homeowners are choosing to get rid of them.

Acoustic ceilings may contain asbestos.

Early formulations of acoustic or popcorn ceilings often contained asbestos fibers, which ended up being banned because of hazardous properties when inhaled. But even though the substance was banned, many homes still have acoustic ceilings with asbestos in them. If that material is ever disturbed, it can become airborne and can cause respiratory issues if inhaled.

Acoustic ceilings are a trap for dust and debris.

Because of the bumpy and gritty nature of acoustic or popcorn ceilings, they can easily trap any dirt or dust in the home. Over time, this can cause a discolored look to the ceiling. Unlike smooth ceilings finishes that allow dust and dirt to be easily sloughed off, bumpy acoustic ceilings are havens for dust and dirt.

Acoustic ceilings are hard to keep clean.

When those ceilings become dirty, they can be very hard to clean. It’s difficult to take a dust rag or broom to the ceiling to get rid of the dust and dirt without allowing any of the material to become dislodged. Not only does this make a mess, it also allows any potential asbestos that may be in the material to loosen and make its way into the air to be inhaled.

The Ceilings Specialists are highly experienced in removing acoustic ceilings. Using a variety of different methods (depending on what’s best for a specific project), our team of experts can carefully and effectively remove the acoustic material and reveal a much smoother, more modern finish underneath. In fact, acoustic ceiling removal is our specialty, and you can rest assured knowing that your ceiling surface will be transformed into something you’ll love.

Call The Ceiling Specialists today for your next acoustic ceiling removal project!