How to Repaint a Popcorn Ceiling

Popcorn ceilings, also called acoustical ceilings, can be a challenge to paint. It is difficult to apply paint evenly to the extreme texture of a popcorn ceiling without creating runs and drips and without missing spots in the deep valleys of the texture. With the right tools and knowledge, you can achieve a professional result.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Painter's tape (or masking tape) Drop cloths Paint Paint roller tray Paint roller Paint roller extension High-nap paint roller cover (at least ½ inch)

Prepare for Painting

1. Remove any removable ceiling fixtures, such as light fixtures and vents.

2. Tape off any ceiling fixtures that cannot be removed with painter's tape or masking tape.

3. Clean any dust and cobwebs that are visible on the ceiling surface. Pay special attention to corners where the ceiling meets the wall surfaces.

4. Tape off the edges of the wall where the walls meet the ceiling to avoid paint splatters on the wall surfaces. Consider covering the wall surfaces with plastic drop cloth sheeting for extra protection.

5. Cover the floors and any items in the room with drop cloths to protect them from dripping paint.

6. Gather all necessary materials and ensure proper ventilation.

Paint the Popcorn Ceiling

7. Attach an extension to the paint roller handle to allow you to reach the ceiling surface, and push a roller cover onto the roller.

8. Pour paint into the roller tray and work into the roller. The roller cover should be saturated with paint, but not dripping.

9. Begin applying paint to the ceiling surface. The high nap of the roller cover should reach all the dips and valleys of the popcorn texture ceiling. Avoid pressing too hard, as this will cause drips and runs. Roll the paint in crossing V patterns to avoid lines.

10. Reload your roller with paint as often as necessary. The high-nap roller absorbs and applies a lot of paint quickly and requires frequent reloads.

11. Paint the edges of the ceiling using a paintbrush.

12. Apply a second coat of paint, if necessary, after allowing several hours to dry.

Cleanup

13. Remove and discard the paint roller cover.

14. Clean rollers and paintbrushes in warm soapy water.

15. Allow rollers and paintbrushes to air dry.

16. Remove and discard tape and drop cloths.

17. Reinstall all removed ceiling fixtures (after painting them to match the ceiling, if desired).

Tips & Warnings

• If you are painting white over white, consider purchasing tinted ceiling paint. This type of paint rolls on with a tint (usually purple) and dries white. The tint helps you see where you are applying the fresh paint to help avoid missing spots. If you are drastically changing the color of your popcorn ceiling, you will need to paint with a primer prior to painting. Flat latex paint is a good choice for ceilings.
• Always use proper ventilation when painting. Paint fumes can gather quickly in an enclosed area.