Removing popcorn ceilings is a DIY project that requires the purchase of a variety of tools and supplies. The most important are a spray bottle, a scraper tool (a four- or six-inch mud knife works well), and a ladder if you have vaulted ceilings.
Prepare for the Project
Before you begin removing your popcorn ceiling, move all furniture and personal belongings from the area. This will prevent them from becoming damaged by the scraping process and will save you the time and effort of covering them with a drop cloth or plastic sheet. Also, make sure that all electrical boxes in the room are covered with painter’s tape before spraying water on the textured ceiling.
Popcorn ceilings are notorious for being messy, which is why preparing the area for removal is essential. This includes moving small items like tables and chairs out of the room and covering larger items with tarps. It’s also a good idea to shut off all the electricity in the room and remove all the light fixtures prior to spraying the ceiling texture with water.
If you’re planning on using a garden pump sprayer for this project, it’s a good idea to cover any electrical boxes in the room with painter’s tape, as they may become wet and possibly nicked by the water. Once you’ve misted the texture with water, wait about 15 minutes to see if it softens before scraping. If it doesn’t, spray the ceiling again.
Test for Asbestos
If your popcorn ceiling was installed before 1980, it’s likely that the material is composed of asbestos. Asbestos is a known carcinogen that’s been linked to lung cancer. This makes it important to have it tested by a professional before attempting to remove it on your own.
A professional will be able to determine if asbestos is present in your popcorn ceiling, and can recommend the best way to remove it safely. If it’s determined that you should avoid scraping the material, then it’s a good idea to hire a home contractor or paint specialist who can handle the project.
The Scraping Method
The most common method for removing popcorn ceilings is to use a scraper, which can be purchased at many hardware stores. A scraper with a wide blade is ideal, as it can cover more ground. Once the ceiling texture has been scraped, use a putty knife to tidy up the corners, crown molding and extra residue left behind.
When scraping, be sure to use a firm hand and not too much force, because this can cause damage to the drywall and joints. Be patient and repeat the process until all the popcorn texture has been removed.
During the scraping process, you can also use a garden sprayer to help loosen up the popcorn texture. Just be careful not to overdo it with the amount of water used, or you can saturate the ceiling and cause problems.
After removing the popcorn ceiling, you can refinish the surface with drywall, paint or paneling. This will give the ceiling a smoother, more modern look. This type of finish is a great option for rooms with high ceilings, since it can help the room appear larger by blending the peaks and valleys into one uniform appearance.
