While some people like the look and acoustic qualities of a popcorn ceiling, they can make a house look dated. Changing the look of your ceiling means first removing the popcorn, then deciding whether you want a smooth ceiling or a different texture. It is not a very difficult job, but can be messy. There are some important safety considerations you need to be aware of, particularly in older homes.
Instructions
Change a Popcorn Ceiling
1. Determine when the popcorn texture was sprayed on. Asbestos was banned by the EPA in 1977. You should assume that any popcorn applied prior to 1980 contains asbestos, which can do significant lung damage when disturbed. Check the EPA link in Resources to find a laboratory where you you can have a sample of your popcorn tested for asbestos, and to find a qualified professional to remove it, if necessary. In some states it is illegal to remove and dispose of materials containing asbestos without certification.
2. Remove as much furniture from the room as you can. Take down window coverings and wall art. Close or cover the heat and air ducts.
3. Use the roll of plastic sheeting and tape to cover the floor and any remaining furniture. When rolling the plastic over the floor, tape it securely to the walls about six inches above the baseboard so it catches all the debris.
4. Put fabric drop cloths or builder paper (also called rosin paper, and available inexpensively at hardware stores) over the floor plastic. Since you'll be using water to dampen the ceiling texture, the plastic will become slippery. This will also ensure the feet of the ladder will not break through the plastic.
5. Protect the walls, unless you are planning to repaint them. Tape the plastic along the top of the wall so it hangs all the way to the floor.
6. Fill the garden sprayer with water and mist a three foot square area of the ceiling. Make sure you use enough water to thoroughly dampen the popcorn, but not so much that you soak the underlying drywall.
7. Make sure you are wearing at least a dust mask and eye protection. Using the scraper, remove the damp popcorn. It should come off very easily. Once finished, roll up the plastic containing the debris and dispose of it in large trash bags.
8. Decide what effect you want on your ceiling. Whether you want a smooth, untextured ceiling or want to try your hand at hand texturing or a spray texture, you now have a blank slate. Check references below for some ideas.
Tags: ceiling texture, Change Popcorn, Change Popcorn Ceiling, Make sure, over floor, Popcorn Ceiling