How to Remove a Popcorn Ceiling

This article will tell you how to remove the popcorn texture from your ceiling so that you are left with a smooth finish.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ladder
• Goggles
• Dust Mask
• Plastic Drop Cloths
• Garden Pump Srayer
• Smooth Edge Scraper
• Blue Painters Tape

1. Cover the floor (and anything else you don't want covered with dust) with the plastic drop cloths. Tape it along all edges and the areas where the plastic overlaps.

2. Fill the pump sprayer with water. Begin by spraying a 2' by 2' area. The trick is, you want the popcorn to come off easily. You should get it wet enough that it comes off in sort of a sheet, without having to do much scraping. Too much water, and/or scraping, could mess up the tape joints in the sheet rock.

3. Continue this process through the entire room.

4. Let the ceiling completely dry (usually 24 hours) before sanding, priming, and painting.

5. After you are done, roll up the plastic sheeting from the corners and clean up any dried residue.

Tips & Warnings

• When removing the popcorn, don't scrape too hard or you may damage the drywall underneath.
• Note: Take your time in sanding to ensure a smooth surface. You may have to repair any nicks with joint tape compound.