The cost of asbestos removal is so high, I've decided to overlay the ceilings with drywall. The person I've hired to do the work suggested quarter-inch thick drywall.

So, for example, a half face respirator, you make sure that is sufficient for them.” Those asbestos dangers might put a damper on some do-it-yourself projects involving drywall.

Removing the asbestos popcorn is, as you have suggested, not a good option. The ceiling has been painted several times, but it's still popcorn. We raised the possibility of drywall.

While studying the mold, the Sheetrock was found to contain asbestos in levels high enough to be regulated by the state Labor Department, the memo says.

“A general rule of thumb is that buildings built before 1985 are possibly built with sheetrock that likely has asbestos,” Harris said. “Faculty and students can’t go banging things into the wall. The ...