How to Undo a Textured Ceiling

Removing texture from a ceiling is hard work.

Textured ceilings are common in many homes. Removing your ceiling's texture is a great way to update your home's appearance. Undoing textured ceilings can be a long and tiring process. Because you are working over your head the entire time, your arms will get tired. Take a lot of breaks to alleviate the pressure in your arms. In addition, it is important to wear proper eye protection, to avoid getting bits of the texture and ceiling dust in your eyes.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic drop cloths
• Spray bottle
• Water
• Putty knife
• Mudding compound
• Sandpaper
• Paint

Instructions

1. Check for asbestos. Take a small sample of the texture on the ceiling. You will need to send the sample to an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certified testing lab. If the sample tests positive for asbestos, you will need to have the texturing removed by a certified asbestos removal contractor. If the sample is negative for asbestos, continue to Step 2.

2. Cover the flooring and furniture with a plastic drop cloth. This will protect your flooring and furnishings from damage.

3. Wet the ceiling by using a spray bottle filled with water. Do not saturate the texturing, but wet it enough to soften it.

4. Scrape the texturing using a putty knife. Scrape carefully, so you do not gouge the surface of the ceiling.

5. Fill gouges, nail holes and joints in the ceiling by using mudding compound. Let the mud dry completely, then sand the ceiling smooth.

6. Remove the drop clothes carefully and replace them with new drop clothes. Paint the ceiling.

References

• Ron Hazelton's Housecalls: How to Remove a Popcorn-Textured Ceiling
• Home Envy: Steps to Removing Textured Ceilng