Asbestos may exist in acoustical tile and popcorn ceiling

A "popcorn ceiling" is also known as an acoustical ceiling. These ceilings were a fad in the early 60's. As with acoustical tile, the "popcorn" is installed to dampen sound and reduce or eliminate echoes. The "popcorn" is actually a lumpy texture that is sprayed on ceilings. Many of the early spray mixes did contain significant amounts of asbestos, but there is no way to know for sure without laboratory testing.