How To Hide Popcorn Ceiling

Popcorn ceilings, also known as acoustic ceilings, were common in homes built before the 1980s. They were designed to reduce noise and improve acoustics, but they can also be a challenge to decorate and maintain. If you're tired of your popcorn ceiling and want to give your home a more modern look, there are a few different ways to hide it.

Option 1: Apply a Smooth Ceiling Treatment

One of the simplest and most affordable ways to hide a popcorn ceiling is to apply a smooth ceiling treatment. These treatments are available in a variety of forms, including:

Ceiling paint: This is the most basic option and can be applied directly to the popcorn ceiling. However, it may require multiple coats to achieve a smooth finish.
Ceiling texture: This is a thicker product that can be applied to the popcorn ceiling to create a more even surface. It is more expensive than ceiling paint, but it can also produce a more professional-looking finish.
Popcorn ceiling remover: This is a chemical product that can be applied to the popcorn ceiling to dissolve the popcorn and leave behind a smooth surface. It is the most expensive option, but it is also the most effective.

Option 2: Install a Drop Ceiling

If you don't want to mess with applying a smooth ceiling treatment, you can install a drop ceiling. This is a suspended ceiling that is hung from the existing ceiling joists. Drop ceilings are available in a variety of materials, including:

Metal: Metal drop ceilings are durable and easy to clean, but they can be noisy.
Vinyl: Vinyl drop ceilings are lightweight and inexpensive, but they can be easily damaged.
Wood: Wood drop ceilings are a good option for a more traditional look, but they can be expensive and difficult to install.

Option 3: Install Drywall

If you want to completely remove the popcorn ceiling, you can install drywall over it. This is a more involved process than the other options, but it will give you the most professional-looking finish.

To install drywall over popcorn ceiling, you will need to:

Remove any light fixtures or ceiling fans.
Cover the popcorn ceiling with a layer of plastic sheeting.
Install furring strips perpendicular to the joists, spacing them 16 inches apart.
Hang the drywall on the furring strips, using drywall screws.
Tape and mud the joints between the drywall panels.
Sand the drywall smooth.
Paint the drywall.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The best way to hide a popcorn ceiling depends on your budget, skill level, and desired outcome. If you want a simple and affordable solution, applying a smooth ceiling treatment is a good option. If you want a more permanent solution, installing a drop ceiling or drywall is a better choice.

No matter which option you choose, hiding a popcorn ceiling can be a rewarding project that will give your home a more modern and sophisticated look.