How To Cover Textured Ceiling

Textured ceilings, once the height of fashion, have fallen out of favor in recent years. If you're looking to update the look of your home, covering up a textured ceiling is a great way to do it. There are a few different ways to do this, depending on the type of texture and the desired finished look.

Method 1: Skim Coating

Skim coating is a process of applying a thin layer of joint compound over the textured ceiling. This method is best for ceilings with a light texture, such as popcorn ceilings. To skim coat a ceiling, you will need the following materials:

Joint compound
Joint knife
Putty knife
Sandpaper

Step 1: Prepare the Ceiling

Start by cleaning the ceiling with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt. Next, repair any cracks or holes in the ceiling with joint compound. Once the repairs are dry, sand the ceiling lightly to smooth the surface.

Step 2: Apply the Joint Compound

Using a joint knife, apply a thin layer of joint compound over the ceiling. Start by working in small sections, and use smooth, even strokes. Once you have applied a layer of joint compound to the entire ceiling, let it dry completely.

Step 3: Sand the Ceiling

Once the joint compound is dry, sand the ceiling lightly to smooth the surface. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and work in small, circular motions. Be careful not to sand too much, as this can damage the joint compound.

Method 2: Drywalling

Drywalling is a more permanent way to cover a textured ceiling. This method is best for ceilings with a heavy texture, such as acoustic ceilings. To drywall a ceiling, you will need the following materials:

Drywall
Drywall screws
Drywall tape
Joint compound
Joint knife
Putty knife
Sandpaper

Step 1: Install the Drywall

Start by cutting the drywall to fit the ceiling. Then, screw the drywall into the ceiling joists, spacing the screws about 12 inches apart. Be sure to countersink the screws slightly below the surface of the drywall.

Step 2: Tape and Mud the Seams

Once the drywall is installed, tape and mud the seams between the sheets. Start by applying a layer of drywall tape to the seam. Then, apply a thin layer of joint compound over the tape. Let the joint compound dry completely.

Step 3: Sand the Ceiling

Method 3: Drop Ceiling

A drop ceiling is a suspended ceiling that is installed below the existing ceiling. This method is a good option for ceilings that are in poor condition or that have a lot of wires or pipes running through them. To install a drop ceiling, you will need the following materials:

Drop ceiling grid
Ceiling tiles
Wall molding

Step 1: Install the Grid

Start by installing the drop ceiling grid. The grid is made up of metal tracks that are suspended from the ceiling joists. Once the grid is installed, you can start installing the ceiling tiles.

Step 2: Install the Ceiling Tiles

To install the ceiling tiles, simply drop them into the grid. The tiles will rest on the flanges of the grid tracks. Continue installing tiles until the entire ceiling is covered.

Step 3: Install the Wall Molding

Once the ceiling tiles are installed, you can install the wall molding. The wall molding will cover the gap between the ceiling and the walls. To install the wall molding, simply nail it into the wall studs.