Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Asbestos Ceiling

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Other/Misc
Remote Name: 207.82.209.150
Date: 10 Nov 2000
Time: 07:00 PM

Comments

I'm assuming you have a "sprayed acoustical ceiling" and want a clean, smooth look, correct? Asbestos is only a problem when it's disturbed and becomes airborne. That's why removal can be expensive and must be done by specialists.

Your suggestion of covering it with another layer of sheetrock will work, so long as the ceiling joists are sized to carry the extra load. You don't want the ceiling to sag due to excess weight. Generally, this shouldn't be a problem. Only use screws, not nails. You'll probably need screws that are approximately 2 to 2-1/2" long in order to penetrate through two layers of 1/2" sheetrock, the layer of acoustical spray, and still have enough teeth into the joists to carry the load.

Keep in mind that during the installation process, some amount of the existing ceiling will crumble off as the new sheetrock is being installed. As a result, there may be some amount of airborne asbestos contamination. You should probably advise the installers so they can take extra precautions during installation to minimize damage to the existing ceiling.

If you have recessed lights, adding extra sheetrock might be a problem. Check to see if the "cans" are adjustable and can accept the additional thickness of the ceiling. Also, any crown moulding will have to be removed and reinstalled.

Another suggestion, particularly if you have a 2nd floor, is to use metal sound isolation channels on the downstairs ceiling (usually about 1/2" thickness)....then attach a new layer of sheetrock to the sound channels. Sound channels should be screwed into the ceiling joists running perpendicular. These help to isolate noise from the floor above, making the room much more quiet. We did this in our home and it makes a huge difference. You hear a lot less "foot traffic" compared to ceilings with no sound channels. Sound channels cost less than $100 for a whole room, yet they make a big difference in living quality. Again, this is only necessary if you have a floor above the room(s) in question.

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