How to Texture a Ceiling Safely

Textured ceilings hide imperfections in the sheetrock beneath, and they add a welcome acoustical element to the room. Whether you want a large or small texture, the best way to apply it safely is from ground level. With the right technique and tools, you can texture your own ceiling in no time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2 long handles with screw ends
• 1 thick paint roller (preferably lambswool)
• Roller handle with screw-in base
• Prepared drywall compound
• 3-inch-by-8-inch natural bristle brush with screw-in hole
• Assistant (at least one)

1. Choose your tools depending upon the amount of ceiling you will be texturing and the pattern you desire. Pick a brush that attaches to a long handle and one with a minimum of 2-inch-long natural bristles. The longer the bristles, the larger your texture will be and the wider the texture pattern.

2. Prepare the brush by soaking it in hot water for an hour and then pressing it bristle side down on a flat board. Make sure you separate the bristles directly down the middle. They should all extend outwards. Place something on top of the brush to allow it to dry in that position.

3. Attach your roller handle and your brush to the ends of the long poles. This will make it possible for you and your assistant to easily reach the ceiling without having to climb on ladders.

4. Put the thick roller onto the handle and dip it in the prepared drywall mud, turning it to cover evenly. Allow the excess to drip off but leave a good amount on the roller in order to apply it to the ceiling.

5. Roll the drywall compound in a 1/4-inch-thick layer on the ceiling, starting in one area and doing a 3-foot-by-3-foot square at a time.

6. Ask your assistant, who is holding the brush, to “tamp” the ceiling carefully with the brush to form a stippled pattern in the drywall mud layer. He should stand directly below the area and tamp upwards with a vertical motion, while spinning the handle after every tamp. This allows the brush to leave a nice pattern.

7. Repeat the procedure over the entire ceiling. If you accidentally get any drywall compound on the adjacent walls, scrape off carefully with a wide taping knife, then wipe with a damp rag.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid climbing on ladders by using handles. The entire ceiling can be done safely by two people of average height when long handles are used.
• Mix paint (if desired) with the prepared drywall mud before applying to the ceiling for an even finish.
• You can speed the drying time of the texture by putting fans in the room.