How to Get Rid of Popcorn Ceilings
Acoustic ceilings, also known as "popcorn" ceilings, once seemed like a quick and easy way to add texture to a wall that would dampen noise and hide imperfections. However, homeowners may now prefer a smooth and elegant surface. Removing popcorn texture might seem like a daunting task, but if it is done correctly it can dramatically update the look of a room. With a bit of preparation, a few tools, and a helper or two, you can do it yourself. Here are some steps to get rid of popcorn ceilings. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Painter's tape
- Plastic sheeting
- Pump sprayer
- Water
- Ladder
- Disposable coveralls
- Rubber gloves
- Eye goggles
- Respiratory mask
- 6" metal putty knife
- Disposable rags
Instructions
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1
Remove all furniture from the room. Use painter's tape to attach plastic sheeting to the walls and floor. This will ensure the scraped-off ceiling material will be contained and allow for easy cleanup.
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2
Fill the spray bottle with water. Using a ladder, wet a five- to six-square-foot section of the ceiling. Take care not to wet the ceiling too much as it may cause damage to the underlying drywall. Wait a few minutes for the water to soak in.
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Put on your protective gear. This is a messy job and coveralls are recommended to avoid having potentially harmful chemicals come into contact with your skin. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes and a sanding respiratory mask to avoid inhaling the dust.
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4
Use the putty knife to scrape off the ceiling texture in the moistened area. The material should come off in strips. If it does not come off easily, the area may need to be sprayed with more water.
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Use a wet rag to clean off any remaining residue from the newly scraped area.
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Repeat the process with another section until you have removed the popcorn texture from the entire ceiling.
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Tips & Warnings
After you have removed the popcorn texture, a pole sander can help smooth out rough spots. Use joint compound to fill in any holes or cracks you may find in the wallboard.
If your home was built before 1980 there is a chance it may contain asbestos. Asbestos is a deadly substance that can cause several types of cancer. You can find out if your popcorn ceiling contains asbestos by sending a small sample to an EPA-certified testing lab for a small fee. If your home is found to contain asbestos, you may be required to obtain a permit for this project, as well as one for the disposal of asbestos-related waste. Working with asbestos is dangerous and is best left to a certified asbestos contractor.
