Ranging from 1945-1990, popcorn ceilings were a popular style in many homes. This texture was created by using a spray-on technique resembling cottage cheese. It was less expensive than traditional plaster, and it provided a fire-resistance advantage. Today, the speckled ceiling design is not the ideal design choice, despite it still being present in many homes whose owners or builders previously bought into this trend. There are many options that you can choose from when it comes to replacing or embracing the popcorn ceiling in modern times.
Before a project can be carried out on a popcorn ceiling, it’s important that the homeowner first determines if the material’s composition poses a health risk. This type of ceiling was originally made with asbestos, which was banned as a health hazard in 1978. In 1985, manufacturers started using paper fiber instead of asbestos. However, the suppliers of these materials still continued to sell products that contained the dangerous substance. This means that the ceilings that were installed during the 1980s could still contain asbestos.
If the presence of asbestos is confirmed, you should contact an EPA-approved laboratory to have a piece of the ceiling tested. Although homeowners are allowed to remove the entire structure, a professional company should be hired to remove the asbestos. Before you can start the process of removing the entire ceiling, it’s important that you contact your local waste authority to determine the best way to dispose of the material.
Your Options for Removing Your Popcorn Ceiling
Although popcorn ceilings can be patched, obtaining a proper match to their original color and texture can be challenging. There are various products that can be used to patch this type of ceiling, such as spray-on ceilings or premixed containers. Unfortunately, thinned drywall compounds are not recommended for replacing the popcorn ceiling texture.
If the popcorn ceiling’s texture is not sagging, shedding, or flaking, then it can be painted to update its appearance. To keep water spots and stains from bleeding through, start by brushing off all dust with a soft bristle brush. After that, apply a stain-blocking primer to prevent water spots and stains from bleeding through. You can also use a paint sprayer to apply the paint.
Although it’s not difficult to remove an unpainted popcorn ceiling, the process can be time-consuming and messy. After you have saturated the surface, it’s a matter of scraping it away using a large putty knife.
If the surface has previously been painted, then you’ll need to apply a stripping product to remove the painted popcorn ceiling. These gel-based solutions can be rolled or brushed on, and they can reduce the drips. After giving the mixture enough time to cure, you can use a wide trowel to remove both the texture and the paint.
Before you start the process of removing the popcorn ceiling, make sure that you have the proper equipment, such as a facemask and eye protection. Also, keep the area wet to prevent the spread of fibers, which can potentially cause health issues.