How To Remove A Popcorn Ceiling That Has Been Painted

Popcorn ceilings were once a popular way to add texture and sound absorption to a room. However, they have since fallen out of fashion, and many homeowners are now looking for ways to remove them. If your popcorn ceiling has been painted, the process of removing it can be a bit more challenging, but it is still possible with the right tools and techniques.

The first step is to determine whether or not your popcorn ceiling contains asbestos. Popcorn ceilings typically were sprayed with asbestos-containing texturing between the 1940s and the mid-1970s. If your home was built during this time, you must have the ceiling tested before you begin any work. You can purchase a DIY asbestos test kit from a hardware store or a certified asbestos testing company.

If your popcorn ceiling does contain asbestos, you must hire a certified asbestos abatement contractor to remove it safely. Do not attempt to remove asbestos-containing popcorn ceiling yourself, as it can be very dangerous.

If your popcorn ceiling does not contain asbestos, you can remove it yourself using the following steps:

Prepare the room. Cover all furniture and flooring with plastic sheeting. Wear a dust mask, gloves, and safety glasses.
Scrape off the popcorn texture. Use a wide scraper or putty knife to scrape off the popcorn texture from the ceiling. Be careful not to gouge the drywall underneath.
Sand the ceiling. Once the popcorn texture has been removed, sand the ceiling to smooth out any rough edges. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and work in small sections.
Prime the ceiling. Apply a coat of primer to the ceiling to help the paint adhere better.
Paint the ceiling. Once the primer has dried, you can paint the ceiling with the color of your choice.

Removing a popcorn ceiling can be a messy and time-consuming process, but it is a worthwhile project if you want to update the look of your room. By following these steps, you can safely and effectively remove your popcorn ceiling, even if it has been painted.

Tips:

If the popcorn ceiling is very thick, you may need to use a power sander to remove it.
Be sure to wear a dust mask and gloves when sanding the ceiling, as the dust can be irritating to the lungs and skin.
If you are painting the ceiling a dark color, you may need to apply two or three coats of paint to get good coverage.