How to Remove "Popcorn" Texture From a Ceiling

If you're tired of the old popcorn texture on a ceiling, you can remove it and smooth out the ceiling. It's a messy job - but one that can make a vast improvement in the look of a room. Follow these steps to ensure a new and refreshing look indoors.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Pole Sander
• Drywall Sandpaper
• Drop Cloths
• Clear Plastic Sheeting
• Joint Knives
• Drywall Joint Compound

1. Remove all furniture from the room. Put down drop cloths or plastic to catch the mess and protect the floor.
2. Remove light fixtures from the ceiling when working; this makes it easier to work and helps you avoid accidental damage.
3. Set up a folding ladder or rolling scaffolding at the appropriate height for the room.
4. Choose a drywall joint knife of the broadest width that you can handle without tiring too rapidly. (Trying to use a blade that's too wide for your physical limits can lead to gouged ceilings!)
5. Hold the knife against the ceiling at an angle of approximately 45 degrees or a little less, and push it away from you with a strong, even stroke. Use this planing motion to scrape away the ceiling texture. It may take several passes over the same area to get it smooth.
6. Keep scraping until you've removed nearly all the texture and the entire ceiling is as smooth as scraping can achieve.
7. Sand the entire area with a medium-grit drywall sandpaper. (You can buy or rent a sanding pad attached to a long pole. This allows you to work while standing on the floor.)
8. Give the ceiling a second sanding with a fine-grit drywall sand paper.
9. Inspect the ceiling closely. If you find gouges or other rough spots, you'll need to fill them in with drywall joint compound, allow them to dry, and sand the area again.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are going to re-texture the surface, the final phase of filling and sanding any blemishes isn't necessary.
• Be sure to protect your eyes and lungs from the dust. Use goggles and a dust mask.
• If you think there may be asbestos in your ceiling texture, don't do this project yourself. Asbestos is extremely hazardous when airborne. Consider any ceiling more than 20 years old to be an asbestos hazard. Have your ceiling tested to be sure.

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