How Do You Remove Popcorn Ceiling That Has Been Painted

Popcorn ceilings, a popular ceiling texture from the 1950s to the 1980s, can give a room an outdated look. And if you're thinking of removing a popcorn ceiling, you may be wondering if it's possible to do so if it's been painted.

The answer is yes, but it's important to take the necessary precautions. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to remove popcorn ceiling that has been painted:

Safety First

Before you start, it's important to take some safety precautions. Popcorn ceilings often contain asbestos, which is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. If you're not sure whether your popcorn ceiling contains asbestos, it's best to have it tested by a professional.

Once you've determined that your popcorn ceiling does not contain asbestos, you can begin the removal process. You'll need the following supplies:

A spray bottle filled with water

A scraper

A vacuum cleaner

A drop cloth

Safety glasses

A respirator

Preparation

Before you start scraping, it's important to prepare the room. Cover the floor with a drop cloth to protect it from falling popcorn. Open the windows to ventilate the room, and wear safety glasses and a respirator to protect yourself from dust.

Removing the Popcorn Ceiling

To remove the popcorn ceiling, start by spraying a small area with water. Let the water soak in for a few minutes, then use the scraper to gently scrape away the popcorn. Be careful not to press too hard, or you could damage the drywall underneath.

As you scrape, vacuum up the loose popcorn. Continue spraying and scraping until all of the popcorn has been removed.

Cleaning Up

Once you've removed all of the popcorn, vacuum the ceiling and floor thoroughly. Then, wipe down the ceiling with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dust or debris.

Repairing the Drywall

In some cases, you may need to repair the drywall after removing the popcorn ceiling. If the drywall is damaged, you can patch it with a drywall patch kit. Once the patch is dry, you can sand it smooth and paint it to match the rest of the ceiling.

Painting the Ceiling

Once the drywall is repaired, you can paint the ceiling. Use a high-quality paint that is specifically designed for ceilings. Apply two coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Enjoying Your New Ceiling

Once the paint is dry, you can enjoy your new, smooth ceiling. Popcorn ceilings are a thing of the past, and with a little effort, you can remove them and give your room a more modern look.