How To Do Popcorn Ceiling

Popcorn ceilings, also known as acoustic ceilings, were a popular way to finish ceilings in homes built between the 1950s and 1990s. The textured surface of the popcorn ceiling helps absorb sound and reduce noise in rooms where it applied. While popcorn ceilings were once considered a desirable feature, today they are often seen as outdated and undesirable.

If you are considering adding or removing a popcorn ceiling in your home, there are a few things you should know.

Removing Popcorn Ceiling

Removing a popcorn ceiling can be a messy and time-consuming process. However, it is possible to do it yourself with the right tools and materials.

To remove a popcorn ceiling, you will need:

Safety glasses
A respirator mask
A drop cloth or plastic sheeting
A ladder
A drywall saw or scraper
A sponge or cloth
A bucket of warm water
A joint compound knife or putty knife
Primer
Paint

1. Safety First

Before you begin removing the popcorn ceiling, put on safety glasses and a respirator mask to protect yourself from dust and debris.

2. Prepare the Area

Cover the floor and furniture in the room with a drop cloth or plastic sheeting. This will help to protect your belongings from dust and debris.

3. Remove the Popcorn Ceiling

Use a drywall saw or scraper to carefully remove the popcorn ceiling. Be careful not to damage the drywall beneath the popcorn ceiling.

4. Clean the Ceiling

Once the popcorn ceiling has been removed, use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the ceiling with warm water. This will help to remove any remaining dust or debris.

5. Repair the Ceiling

If there are any holes or cracks in the drywall, use a joint compound knife or putty knife to fill them in. Once the repairs have been made, allow the joint compound to dry completely.

6. Prime and Paint the Ceiling

Once the repairs have been made, prime the ceiling with a coat of primer. This will help to seal the drywall and prevent the paint from absorbing into the drywall.

Once the primer has dried, you can paint the ceiling with two coats of paint.

Adding Popcorn Ceiling

Adding a popcorn ceiling is a relatively simple process that can be done in a few hours. However, it is important to note that popcorn ceilings are not as popular as they once were, and they may not add value to your home.

To add a popcorn ceiling, you will need:

A bucket of popcorn ceiling material
A hopper gun
A compressor
A ladder
Safety glasses
A respirator mask
A drop cloth or plastic sheeting

1. Safety First

Before you begin adding the popcorn ceiling, put on safety glasses and a respirator mask to protect yourself from dust and debris.

2. Prepare the Area

Cover the floor and furniture in the room with a drop cloth or plastic sheeting. This will help to protect your belongings from dust and debris.

3. Mix the Popcorn Ceiling Material

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to mix the popcorn ceiling material. The material should be mixed until it is a smooth, creamy consistency.

4. Load the Hopper Gun

Load the hopper gun with the popcorn ceiling material. Make sure that the gun is properly attached to the compressor.

5. Apply the Popcorn Ceiling

Hold the hopper gun about 12 inches away from the ceiling and trigger the gun. Move the gun back and forth in a circular motion until the ceiling is evenly coated.

6. Allow the Popcorn Ceiling to Dry

Once the popcorn ceiling has been applied, allow it to dry completely. This may take several hours.

7. Paint the Popcorn Ceiling (Optional)

Once the popcorn ceiling has dried, you can paint it if desired. Use a flat or matte paint to avoid glare.