How to Apply Popcorn Paint
Popcorn ceilings are also known as acoustical ceilings. This type of ceiling is identifiable by its bumps and ridges across the surface of the ceiling. It was often installed to save money as it does not require smoothing of the drywall. The roughness of the drywall causes the bumps and ridges. Whether you have a bare popcorn ceiling or an already painted one, you can paint over the surface. Note that because of the increased surface area due to the uneven texture, you may need more ceiling paint than for a smooth ceiling.
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Things You'll Need
- Drop cloths
- Painter's tape
- Ceiling paint
- Paint tray
- Long-handle paint roller
- Ladder
Instructions
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1
Lay drop cloths on the floor and over any furniture that cannot be removed from the room. Use painter's tape to secure the cloths. Apply the tape to any wood trim, outlets, smoke detectors, or fixtures near the ceiling area .
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2
Pour some ceiling paint into a paint tray and roll a paint roller back and forth in the tray until it is fully coated.
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Immediately begin applying the paint to the ceiling. If you cannot reach the ceiling even with a long handle, set up a ladder, carefully climb it and begin applying the paint.
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Use light pressure when rolling the roller across the ceiling. Do not push the roller into the ceiling; allow it to glide across the surface. Move in long straight lines. Do not use the "V" or "W" rolling technique used on walls as this can result in uneven coverage and paint lines on the ceiling.
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Re-roll the roller in the paint tray as needed. Because of the bumps, ridges and ripples in the popcorn ceiling, the roller will discharge more paint over short distances as opposed to flat ceilings.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear protective goggles and a mask that covers the nose and mouth. You may also want to wear a hat with a brim and long-sleeved clothing with pants to protect from dripping paint and loose ceiling materials.
Applying too much pressure on the popcorn ceiling can cause the "popcorn" particles to come loose, damaging the ceiling and falling all over the area.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
