Popcorn ceilings, a relic of interior design past, often frustrate homeowners. While you can remove these textured ceilings, the process is messy and time consuming. Fortunately, there is a simpler solution—covering popcorn ceilings with planks. This method not only hides the outdated texture but also adds a touch of style to any room. With the right know-how, you can transform your ceilings over a weekend, creating a fresh, modern look without the hassle of completely removing the popcorn.
What You Should Know About Popcorn Ceilings
Before beginning any ceiling renovation, take into account two critical factors—asbestos and paint.
Ceilings installed before 1980 may contain asbestos, a hazardous material linked to severe health risks. Testing the ceiling material for asbestos before commencing any work is crucial. If asbestos is present, consult professionals for safe handling or abatement.
Painted popcorn ceilings present unique challenges. The paint creates a barrier that inhibits water absorption, complicating removal of the textured material. Covering the ceiling with planks provides a practical solution, eliminating the need for messy removal of painted popcorn.
Types of Plank Ceiling Covers
When it comes to covering popcorn ceilings, planks offer versatility and style. There’s a range of options to suit different tastes and interior designs.
Wood and Wood-Look Planks
Wood planks introduce natural warmth and character to a room. Products like Armstrong’s WOODHAVEN offer a range of wood-look finishes, including beadboard, driftwood, maple, and pine. These varieties complement various decor styles, from rustic to contemporary.
Beadboard Planks
White beadboard planks create a timeless, bright, and airy atmosphere. This classic style fits seamlessly into both traditional and modern settings. Beadboard lends a clean appearance that makes rooms feel bigger.
Alternative Materials
In addition to wood and wood-look options, planks made from materials such as PVC or fiberboard are moisture resistant and durable. These alternatives are particularly suitable for areas with high humidity.
Preparing Your Ceiling To Install Planks
The key to achieving a smooth and professional-looking plank ceiling is the right preparation. Follow these steps for best results:
- Test for asbestos if your ceiling was installed before 1980 or if you don’t know when it was installed. If asbestos is present, consult professionals for safe handling or abatement.
- Remove any loose or flaking texture using a putty knife or drywall sander. Focus on creating a relatively smooth surface rather than removing all texture.
- Fill any cracks or holes with spackle and allow it to dry completely. Sand the repaired areas to achieve a level surface.
- Remove any crown molding or ceiling fixtures that may interfere with plank installation, storing them if you plan to reinstall them later.
- Clean the ceiling thoroughly to eliminate dust and debris.
Taking the time to prepare the ceiling properly allows for a flush fit of the planks, giving you a polished and professional final appearance.
How To Cover Popcorn Ceilings With Planks
Covering a popcorn ceiling with planks is a simple process you can complete over a weekend. The Armstrong Ceilings’ Easy Up system is a popular choice, providing a simple three-step installation method:
Install Tracks
Begin by installing tracks perpendicular to the ceiling joists. Use a stud finder to locate the joists and mark their positions. Secure the tracks to the ceiling with threaded screws designed for ceiling use. Use a hacksaw to cut the tracks to fit your ceiling dimensions. Make sure the tracks are level and evenly spaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If your ceilings are uneven, insert wood shims between the track and the ceiling to create a level surface.
Snap-In Clips
Once the tracks are secured, snap the provided clips into the tracks. These clips will hold the planks securely in place. Follow the spacing guidelines included with your specific plank system to ensure proper support.
Mount the Planks
Mount the planks onto the clips starting at one end of the room. Press each plank firmly into place until it snaps securely into the clips. Continue across the ceiling, cutting planks as needed to fit around obstacles or at the room’s edges.
Hanging Methods and Installation Tips
There are two primary methods for installing ceiling planks—suspended tracks and direct-attach tracks. Each method has distinct advantages and suits different ceiling conditions. The Armstrong Ceilings Easy Up system uses direct-attach tracks.
Suspended Tracks
Suspended tracks use wires or rods to create a grid below the existing ceiling. This method is ideal for ceilings with significant texture or unevenness, as it establishes a new, level surface for the planks. The air gap between the old ceiling and new planks also improves insulation and allows for running new wiring.
Direct-Attach Tracks
Direct-attach tracks screw directly into the ceiling surface. This method works best for relatively flat ceilings in good condition, providing a flush finish without losing much ceiling height.
Installation Tips
- Work perpendicular to the ceiling joists for optimal support.
- Stagger the end joints of planks to avoid a repetitive pattern and enhance the overall appearance.
- Leave a 1/4-inch gap around the perimeter of the room to accommodate expansion and contraction.
- Ensure proper alignment by checking frequently as you progress across the ceiling.
Final Thoughts About Covering Popcorn Ceilings With Planks
Covering a popcorn ceiling with planks modernizes your home’s interior without the mess and hassle of removing the popcorn. It dramatically alters the look of a room while adding value to your property, and depending on the installation method, planks can improve the room’s insulation, saving energy. With careful planning and execution, even those with limited DIY experience can achieve professional results in just a weekend.
