Popcorn ceilings, once a popular home design trend, have fallen out of favor in recent years. Many homeowners are now looking to update their spaces by removing these textured ceilings. While the task may seem daunting, with the right approach and tools, it’s a project that most homeowners can tackle themselves. This guide will walk you through the process of removing a popcorn ceiling, from preparation to finishing touches.
Understanding Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings, also known as acoustic ceilings, were widely used in homes built between the 1950s and 1980s. They gained popularity due to their ability to hide imperfections and provide some sound absorption. However, these textured ceilings can make a room feel dated and are often difficult to clean and maintain.
Potential Hazards
Before embarking on a popcorn ceiling removal project, homeowners should be aware of two potential issues — asbestos and popcorn texture that’s been painted over. Ceilings installed before 1980 may contain asbestos, a hazardous material. If asbestos is present, you will need to have a professional remove it.
To test ceiling texture applied before 1980 for asbestos, use a putty knife to scrape a small amount into a sealable plastic bag. Then, send the sample to an approved testing service to see if it contains asbestos. If you’re concerned about the possible health risks involved in taking the sample, you can hire a testing service to come out and take it for you.
If your popcorn texture has been painted over, removal will be more challenging as the paint prevents water absorption, which makes removing it much easier.
To determine if either of these conditions applies, you can perform a simple test. Mix a few drops of liquid dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray a small, inconspicuous area of the ceiling and wait a few minutes. If the water doesn’t soak in, the ceiling has likely been painted. If the texture comes off easily, it’s unpainted and should be relatively simple to remove.
Preparation for Removal
Proper preparation is key to a successful popcorn ceiling removal project. First, clear the room of all furniture, turn off the heating or cooling system, and cover any vents. Next, cut power to the room, remove the ceiling fixtures, and cover wall outlets and switches with plastic, securing them with painter’s tape.
You should also protect the floor with 6-mil plastic sheeting, extending it about a foot up the walls.
Use painter’s tape to attach 2-3-mil plastic sheeting to the walls around the ceiling. For easier cleanup, cover the floor plastic with rosin paper, overlapping sheets and taping them together.
Essential Tools and Materials
To remove a popcorn ceiling, I recommend the following items:
- Plastic sheeting (2-3 mil for walls, 6 mil for floors)
- Rosin paper
- Painter’s tape
- Rags
- Putty knife
- Pump up sprayer
- Liquid dishwashing soap
- 6” or wider floor scraper
- Mesh sanding pad with handle
- Drywall joint compound
- Drywall joint tape
- Dust mask or respirator
- Coveralls
- Eye protection
The Removal Process
With proper preparation and the right tools, you can begin removing the popcorn ceiling. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Put on protective gear, including a dust mask or respirator, safety goggles, and coveralls.
- Fill the pump sprayer with warm water and add 2-3 tablespoons of dish soap per gallon.
- Working in 4-6 foot square sections, saturate the ceiling with the solution. Be careful not to oversaturate, as this can damage the underlying drywall.
- Wait 15-20 minutes for the solution to be absorbed by the texture material.
- Using a floor scraper or wide-bladed tool, gently scrape away the softened texture. Be cautious not to gouge the drywall or tear the joint tape.
- If the texture is stubborn, reapply the water solution and wait a few more minutes before trying again.
- Use a putty knife to remove residual material and access corners.
- Continue this process, working in sections until the entire ceiling is clear of texture.
Repairs and Finishing
After removing the popcorn texture, you’ll likely need to do some drywall finishing:
- Hammer any visible nails or screws below the surface and cover with joint compound.
- Replace any damaged drywall tape and smooth out joints with compound.
- Allow repair work to dry completely.
- Sand the ceiling using a long-handled mesh sanding pad. Focus on removing high spots to avoid damaging the ceiling.
- Prime and paint the ceiling using latex ceiling paint for a smooth, finished look.
Alternative Options
For homeowners who find the removal process too daunting, there are alternatives to consider. These options can provide a different approach and sometimes a faster route to achieving a modern look.
Covering the Popcorn Ceiling
Instead of removal, some homeowners opt to cover the existing texture. You can do this by installing ceiling planks or tiles, applying a skim coat of drywall compound, or by hanging new drywall over the existing ceiling. However, these methods will reduce the height of your ceiling.
Professional Removal
Hiring a professional to remove the popcorn ceiling is another option. While more expensive than DIY, it ensures the job is done safely and efficiently, especially if asbestos is a concern. Professionals have the experience and tools to handle the situation without causing unnecessary damage or leaving a mess.
Time Investment
Homeowners should be ready to spend a lot of time on this project. It could take you several days, depending on how big the area is.
For example, a 500-square-foot room typically takes 2–3 days for DIY removal and finishing. This includes preparation, removal, repair work, and the final painting.
On the other hand, professional services can often complete the job in 1–2 days, thanks to their experience and access to specialized equipment. For those with busy schedules, hiring a professional could be worth the extra cost.
