Monday, July 2, 2012

Remove & Retexture An Acoustic Ceiling

Use drywall compound to fix any flaws after removing an acoustical ceiling.


Popcorn ceilings add a finishing touch to rooms. The texture adds sound protection and decreases echoes in spaces. Creating a perfectly sprayed popcorn ceiling requires practice. Always experiment on old wood or drywall pieces before attempting to spray your ceiling. Once you remove your first layer of acoustic popcorn ceiling, the ceiling often requires repairs. Acoustic plaster also disguises and hides imperfect sheet rock installation.


Instructions


1. Prepare the room for lots of dropping plaster and overspray. Spread plastic sheets across the floor and smooth out any wrinkles. Tape down the sheets with painter's tape and ensure they the sheets are firmly attached to the floor. Attach the same sheets to the walls in the room. Take out any furniture and other interior accessories.


2. Soak the entire ceiling with water mixed with a few drops of dish washing soap. Use a spray mister or water pump to wet the ceiling. Do one section at a time. Wait about 15 minutes and allow the ceiling to become soaked in water.


3. Scrape the ceiling with a metal blade or putty knife. Attempt this without gouging or digging into the ceiling, however this will happen on occasion. Continue to soak the acoustical texture and removing. Some areas may come off easier than others.


4. Inspect the ceiling once you remove all popcorn. Use the putty knife to skim in any areas with drywall mud where the ceiling has been dinged or gouged. Allow the mud to dry and then sand with light grit sandpaper. Wipe the surface clean to rid the area of drywall dust created.


5. Roll on a primer coat of paint with a low nap roller. Work the roller in vertical and horizontal sections. Do not apply too much pressure. Cover the entire ceiling surface.


6. Mix together the acoustical popcorn plaster material with the designated amount of water, per the package's instructions. Add to a plaster or texturizing machine. Begin to slowly spray the texture in one section of the ceiling. For even coverage and the most professional look, do not spray more than a few light layers over each ceiling section. Allow to dry. Paint with a flat sheen paint to complete the project.

Tags: ceiling section, ceiling with, entire ceiling, popcorn ceiling, putty knife