Welcome to the ultimate DIY guide on How to Remove Popcorn Ceiling Texture. Are you tired of that outdated popcorn texture looming above your head? Look no further!
Our seasoned home improvement team shares valuable insights from years of hands-on experience in this comprehensive article.
From prep work to step-by-step removal techniques, we cover it all. Discover efficient methods using standard household tools and safety precautions to ensure a smooth and hazard-free process.
Say goodbye to popcorn ceilings and hello to a fresh, modern aesthetic. Let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to a successful popcorn ceiling removal project!
By the way, this is what your ceilings will look like After Removing Popcorn Ceilings and adding a Fresh Coat of Paint:
What is Popcorn Ceiling Texture?
Widely used in the 70s and 80s as a cheap alternative to Stucco ceiling texture, Popcorn Texture consists of a thin material of drywall mud and miniature styrofoam beads.
When sprayed on the ceiling, popcorn’s texture dries white, covers drywall joints, and provides a final ceiling texture that doesn’t require painting.
Is it Hard to Remove Popcorn Ceilings?
Factors Affecting Removal of Popcorn Ceilings:
- The type of popcorn ceiling: Some popcorn ceilings are easier to remove than others. For example, unpainted popcorn ceilings are much easier to remove than painted ones.
- It would be easier to remove the spray popcorn ceiling texture if the drywall had originally been painted with a Primer before it was applied to the bare drywall.
- The Condition of the drywall: If the drywall underneath the popcorn texture is damaged or in poor condition, removing the popcorn ceiling may be more difficult without damaging the drywall further.
- The Size of the Area: Removing popcorn ceilings from an entire home is relatively more difficult and time-consuming than removing popcorn ceilings from a small room.
If you are unsure whether you can remove popcorn ceilings yourself, it is always best to consult with a professional.
I suggest getting a written estimate from a professional who removes popcorn ceilings and comparing it to DIY popcorn removal (do it yourself?).
Bonus: When you meet with a professional, even if you decide to do the work yourself, you will get a GLIMPSE at how professionals remove popcorn ceilings!
How Long Does It Take to Remove Popcorn Ceilings?
Removing popcorn ceilings can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the size of the area, the type of popcorn ceiling, and the condition of the drywall.
The Good News: Bathroom Ceilings during the 1980’s Popcorn Texture Craze, were very rarely textured. Bathrooms should decrease the number of rooms required for removing popcorn texture.
For instance, If you are removing popcorn ceilings from a small room and the popcorn ceiling is easy to remove, you may be able to complete the job in a few hours.
However, if you remove popcorn ceilings from a large room or an entire house or the popcorn ceiling is difficult to remove, the job may take several days to complete.
Here are some factors that can affect the amount of time it takes to remove popcorn ceilings:
- The size of the area: Removing popcorn ceilings from a large area will take longer than removing popcorn ceilings from a small area.
- Popcorn Ceilings that have been “Painted.” If you’re removing painted popcorn ceilings, using hot water to loosen the texture may not be enough.
- If that’s the case, you may first need to soak stubborn spots of popcorn texture with a spray-on solvent such as Max Strip.
- The condition of the drywall: If the drywall is damaged or in poor condition, it may take longer to remove the popcorn ceiling without further damaging it.
- The tools and equipment you use: Using the right tools and equipment can help you remove popcorn ceilings more quickly and efficiently.
- Your experience level: If you have experience removing popcorn ceilings, you can complete the job more quickly than someone new.
What is the Best Way to Remove Popcorn Ceilings?
The best way to remove popcorn ceilings is to use a process called “Wet Scraping.“ This process involves misting the popcorn ceiling with warm water to loosen it before scraping it off with a paint scraper.
Tools and Materials to Remove Popcorn Ceilings:
- Paint scraper: A Popcorn removal tool or a long-handled drywall blade is ideal for scraping popcorn ceilings. See our recommendations in the FAQ section.
- Pump sprayer: A Pump or garden sprayer can mist the popcorn ceiling with warm water to loosen it before scraping it.
- Drop cloths: Drop cloths will help to catch falling debris and protect your floors.
- Plastic sheeting: Plastic sheeting will help to protect your furniture and belongings from dust and debris.
- Joint compound: After removing the popcorn ceiling, a joint compound can patch any holes or imperfections in the drywall.
- Sandpaper: Sandpaper can smooth out the joint compound and create a smooth surface for painting.
- Ladder (or Drywall Stilts)
Safety Steps For Removing Popcorn Ceilings
Before you begin removing popcorn texture from ceilings, it’s essential to educate yourself on a few critical Safety Steps:
- Test for asbestos: Popcorn ceilings installed before 1980 may contain hazardous material. If you suspect your popcorn ceiling contains asbestos, have it tested by a professional asbestos testing company – before attempting to remove it.
- Wear proper safety gear: When removing popcorn ceilings, always wear a respirator, eye protection, and gloves to protect yourself from dust and other debris.
- Cover your furniture and belongings with plastic sheeting to protect them from dust and debris.
- Running an Air Purifier with a HEPA Filter or opening windows will help remove airborne dust from the house.
How To Remove Popcorn Ceilings:
These are the Eight Steps to Remove Popcorn Ceiling Texture:
- Prepare your workspace by covering furniture and belongings with plastic sheeting and lining the floor with drop cloths.
- Put on your respirator, eye protection, and gloves.
- Use a pump sprayer to mist the popcorn ceiling with warm water, but only cover an area that can be removed in a few minutes.
- Let the warm water soak into the popcorn ceiling for 8-10 minutes.
- Use the drywall scraper to scrape and remove the softened popcorn ceiling, Working in small sections at a time.
- Complete one room at a time, repeating steps 3-5 until the entire popcorn ceiling has been removed.
- Once the popcorn ceiling has been removed, patch any holes or imperfections in the drywall with a joint compound. Caution: If you skip this step, you will see every imperfection, dent, or knick as soon as you apply the paint.
- Once the joint compound has dried, smooth rough spots with a drywall sanding pad – then prime and paint the ceiling.
Video: How To Remove Popcorn Ceilings (From a Professional)
Additional Tips for Wet Scraping a Popcorn Ceiling:
- If the popcorn ceiling can be tricky to scrape off; mist it with water again and wait a few minutes before trying again.
- Some people have good luck by taping a wet-dry vac to their popcorn scraper, which collects debris as you scrape.
- Be careful not to over-wet the popcorn ceiling, which can damage the drywall underneath the popcorn texture.
- Use a Good Popcorn Removal Tool or Drywall Blade. A dull paint scraper will make the job much more complex and time-consuming.
- Work in small sections at a time. This will make the job easier and help prevent the popcorn ceiling from drying out before you can scrape it off.
- Take breaks often. Wet scraping a popcorn ceiling can be physically demanding.
If you are uncomfortable wet scraping your popcorn ceiling, you can hire a professional to do it for you.
Conclusion
Most people consider removing popcorn ceilings a complicated, messy, and time-consuming project—and they’re right!
However, depending on your budget, removing the popcorn ceiling yourself could be just the ticket for you.
Remember that if, for example, a professional will charge you between $4.00 and $8.00 per square foot to remove popcorn ceilings, patch them, and prepare them for paint.
So, even a tiny 10 x 10 bedroom (100 square feet) can cost $400-800 if it is professionally done.
Go ahead and try DIY popcorn ceiling removal. You might be surprised how easily it comes off. Keep in mind that the most you may spend is on the popcorn removal tool/handle and a pump sprayer ($50 +/—total).
So, if you’re moderately handy and have the time to complete it – this is a DIY job worth the savings by tackling it yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the “Best Eye Protection” For Removing Popcorn Ceilings?
A pair of safety goggles designed to protect against dust and debris is the best eye protection for removing popcorn ceilings.
Safety goggles should have indirect vents (prevent fog) to prevent dust from getting into your eyes, and they should also be comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Here are some specific recommendations for safety goggles that are well-suited for removing popcorn ceilings:
- 3M Solis Anti Fog Safety Goggles: These goggles have a wide field of view and indirect vents to prevent dust from getting into your eyes. They also have a comfortable fit and are available in various lens colors.
- DeWalt DPG82-11C Safety Goggles: These goggles have a durable polycarbonate lens resistant to scratches and impacts. They also have indirect vents and a comfortable fit.
- Honeywell Uvex Skyper Safety Goggles: These are lightweight and stylish. They also have indirect vents and a comfortable fit.
What is the Best Respirator for Removing Popcorn Ceilings?
When removing popcorn ceilings, wear safety goggles and a respirator, such as the 3M N95 mask.
Some popcorn textures used before 1980 could include asbestos, and a respirator will help protect you from inhaling dust and other debris.
Popcorn ceiling texture applied before 1980 may contain asbestos, a hazardous material. If you suspect your popcorn ceiling contains asbestos, have it tested by a professional asbestos testing company – before attempting to remove it.
Here are some specific recommendations for respirators that are well-suited for removing popcorn ceilings:
- 3M N95 Particulate Respirator: This respirator is comfortable to wear and effectively protects against dust and other airborne particles.
- DeWalt DPG82-11R N95 Particulate Respirator: This respirator has a durable construction and provides adequate protection against dust and other airborne particles.
- Honeywell North 7700 Series N95 Particulate Respirator: This respirator is lightweight and comfortable to wear. It also effectively protects against dust and other airborne particles.
Wearing safety goggles and a respirator can help protect yourself from the hazards of removing popcorn ceilings.
What is the “Best Type of Platform to Stand On” For Removing Popcorn Ceilings?
While some professionals stand on the floor and use long-handled poles to remove popcorn ceilings, you may not get the necessary angle or leverage to remove the popcorn texture this way.
If you use a stepladder, etc., it is essential to stand on a stable platform that is at least 4 feet high. This will allow you to reach the ceiling comfortably and safely.
Here are some specific recommendations for platforms that are well-suited for removing popcorn ceilings:
- Step ladder: If you have a small space to work in, a step ladder is a good option. Be sure to choose one rated for your weight and the weight of your tools and materials.
- Drywall Stilts: Professional contractors commonly choose drywall stilts first because they can be adjusted to the perfect height to reach ceilings.
- Caution: *Drywall stilts require outstanding balance and a lot of practice before working on anything involving tools.
- Extension ladder: An extension ladder is a good option if you have ample space to work in or need to reach a very high ceiling. Be sure to choose one rated for your weight and the weight of your tools and materials.
- Scaffolding: Scaffolding is the safest and most stable option for removing popcorn ceilings but is also the most expensive.
Scaffolding is the best option for removing popcorn ceilings from a large elevated area or a high ceiling.
When using any platform to remove popcorn ceilings, follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
What are the Best Safety Tips for Removing Popcorn Ceiling Texture?
Here are the best safety tips for removing popcorn ceilings:
- Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety goggles, respirators, gloves, and a long-sleeved shirt.
- Avoid overreaching when scraping the popcorn ceiling to avoid losing your balance. If you cannot comfortably reach a section of the ceiling, move the platform or ladder or use a longer-handled scraper.
- Be careful not to damage the drywall when scraping the popcorn ceiling. If you do, patch it with a joint compound and then sand it before priming and painting the ceiling.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for electrical wiring and other hazards.
- If you are unsure about removing popcorn ceilings, consult a professional.
Following these safety tips can help prevent accidents and injuries when removing popcorn ceilings.
What is the Best Way to Protect Floors and Furniture When Removing Popcorn Ceilings?
These are a few things you can do to protect your floors and furniture when removing popcorn ceilings:
- Cover everything with plastic sheeting. This will help to protect your floors, furniture, and belongings from dust and debris. Tape the plastic sheeting to the floor and walls to prevent slipping.
- Use drop cloths. Drop cloths can protect your floors from heavy debris, such as chunks of popcorn ceilings—place drop cloths under the area where you will be working and around the room’s perimeter.
- If possible, move furniture out of the room. If you can’t move furniture, cover it with plastic sheeting and tape it down.
- Cover vents and electrical outlets with masking tape. This will help prevent dust and debris from entering your vents and electrical outlets.
- Clean up regularly. As you work, sweep up any dust and debris that falls to the floor. This will help to prevent the dust from spreading throughout your home.
How Do You Wet Popcorn Ceilings With a Pump Sprayer?
Follow these Six Steps when using a Pump Sprayer to Wet Popcorn Ceilings (before removal)
- Fill the garden sprayer with water.
- Attach a nozzle to the garden sprayer that produces a fine mist.
- Hold the garden sprayer at a distance of about 12 inches from the popcorn ceiling.
- Spray the popcorn ceiling with a fine water mist until it is evenly wet.
- Wait a few minutes for the water to soak into the popcorn ceiling.
- Use a popcorn ceiling scraper to scrape off the wet popcorn ceiling.
What are the Best Tools to Remove Popcorn Ceilings?
A Popcorn Ceiling Scraper or Drywall taping knife is the best tool to remove popcorn ceilings.
Popcorn ceiling scrapers are explicitly designed for this task, and they have some features that make them more effective than other tools, such as typical paint scrapers.
Popcorn ceiling scrapers typically are attached to a long handle, which allows you to reach the ceiling comfortably and safely. They also have a wide blade with rounded corners, which helps to prevent damage to the drywall.
Additionally, some popcorn ceiling scrapers have an attachment that helps to collect falling debris.
Hold a popcorn ceiling scraper at a low angle and scrape the popcorn ceiling in the direction of the grain. If the popcorn ceiling is too intricate to remove, mist it with water first.
Our Recommended Best Popcorn Ceiling Scrapers:
- Homax Ceiling Texture Scraper: This scraper with a threaded handle, screws onto a pole (broom or paint roller pole), and has a 12″ wide blade with rounded corners. Pros tend to use this method to remove popcorn texture.
- POPeeze Popcorn Ceiling Scraper: This scraper attaches to a shop vacuum hose and helps eliminate dust and debris. It is also very easy to use.
If you are removing popcorn ceilings from a large area or a high ceiling, you may want to consider using a power scraper. Power scrapers are more expensive than manual scrapers but can save time and effort.
Power scrapers typically have a rotary head with carbide teeth. To use a power scraper, hold it against the popcorn ceiling and turn it on. The teeth will scrape off the popcorn ceiling quickly and easily.
No matter which tool you choose, be sure to follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
How Do you Fix Damaged Drywall after removing Popcorn Ceilings?
To Fix Ceiling Drywall Defects, You will need the following materials:
- Joint compound
- Sandpaper
- A putty knife
- Primer
- Paint
Instructions:
- Fill any holes or gaps in the drywall with a joint compound. Use a putty knife to apply the joint compound to the holes or gaps, smoothing the joint compound with the putty knife.
- Allow the joint compound to dry completely. This may take several hours or even overnight.
- Sand the joint compound smoothly using fine-grit sandpaper. Be careful not to sand too hard, which may damage the drywall.
- Apply a primer to the drywall (optional). A primer helps the paint adhere to the drywall and covers minor imperfections.
- Paint the drywall (optional). If you want to paint the drywall, choose a high-quality paint that is designed for drywall. Apply two coats of paint for even coverage.
Additional tips for fixing drywall imperfections after removing popcorn ceilings:
- If you are filling a large hole in the drywall, you may need to use mesh tape to reinforce the patch. Mesh tape is a strong, self-adhesive tape designed for use with joint compounds.
- If sanding a large drywall area, you may want to use a power sander. Power sanders can help you save time and effort.
- If you are painting the drywall, use a paint compatible with the primer you used.
Following these tips, you can quickly fix drywall imperfections after removing popcorn ceilings.
What is the Best Way to clean up after removing popcorn ceilings?
The best way to clean up after removing popcorn ceilings is to use a combination of vacuuming, wet wiping, and sweeping.
Vacuuming
Start by vacuuming up as much dust and debris as possible. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to prevent the dust from recirculating back into the air. Be sure to vacuum all surfaces, including the floor, walls, furniture, and vents.
Wet wiping
Once you have vacuumed the bulk of the dust and debris, wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth.
This will help to remove any remaining dust and debris, as well as any joint compound or other materials that may have been used to repair the drywall.
Sweeping
Finally, use a broom to sweep up any remaining dust and debris. Be sure to sweep the floor, walls, and any other surfaces that may have been affected by the popcorn ceiling removal process.
Here are some additional tips for cleaning up after removing popcorn ceilings:
- Wear a respirator and safety goggles to protect yourself from dust and debris.
- Cover your furniture and belongings with plastic sheeting to protect them from dust and water damage.
- Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
- After the popcorn ceiling removal process, clean up as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to clean up the dust and debris.
If you have a large area to clean up, or if the dust and debris are difficult to remove, you may want to hire a professional cleaning service.
Do I need to test my popcorn ceiling for asbestos before removing it?
Yes, testing your popcorn ceiling for asbestos before removing it is essential. Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if inhaled.
Popcorn ceilings installed before 1980 are more likely to contain asbestos, but it is possible to find asbestos in popcorn ceilings installed after 1980. A professional asbestos testing company can test your popcorn ceiling for asbestos.
What safety precautions should I take when removing popcorn ceilings?
When removing popcorn ceilings, it is vital to take the following safety precautions:
- Wear a respirator, safety goggles, and gloves to protect yourself from dust and debris.
- Cover your furniture and belongings with plastic sheeting to protect them from dust and water damage.
- Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
- Be careful not to overload your electrical outlets with power tools.
- Be careful not to damage the drywall when scraping off the popcorn ceiling.
What are the basic steps in removing popcorn ceilings?
To remove popcorn ceilings, follow these basic steps:
- Prepare your workspace by covering furniture and belongings with plastic sheeting and lining the floor with drop cloths.
- Put on your respirator, safety goggles, and gloves.
- Use the garden or pump sprayer to mist the popcorn ceiling with water. Work in small sections at a time.
- Let the water soak into the popcorn ceiling for a few minutes.
- Use the popcorn ceiling scraper to scrape off the softened popcorn ceiling. Work in small sections at a time.
- Repeat steps 3-5 until the entire popcorn ceiling has been removed.
- Once the popcorn ceiling has been removed, you may need to patch any holes or imperfections in the drywall with a joint compound.
- Once the joint compound has dried, you can sand it smooth, prime it, and paint the ceiling (optional).
How much does it cost to remove popcorn ceilings?
The cost to remove popcorn ceilings varies depending on the size of the area, the type of popcorn ceiling, and the job’s complexity. Most homeowners can expect to pay between $1 and $2 per square foot to have their popcorn ceilings removed by a professional.
Of course, if you Do It Yourself (DIY), the only cost to remove popcorn ceilings will be the cost of any tools and supplies you may need, which are minimal compared to hiring a professional.
Should I hire a professional to remove my popcorn ceilings?
Whether or not you should hire a professional to remove your popcorn ceilings depends on your comfort level with DIY projects and the size and complexity of the job.
If you are uncomfortable removing popcorn ceilings yourself or have a large or complex job, it is best to hire a professional.
Conclusion:
Once considered Trendy, Popcorn Ceilings are now regarded as Tacky. And let’s face it, nothing much dates a home like popcorn ceilings from the 1980s.
If your home has them – you’re probably itching to Remove Popcorn Ceiling Texture as quickly as possible.
Thanks for visiting BestHomeGear – I genuinely hope this information is helpful and encourages you to complete this home improvement project yourself.
Please let us know if you have any other questions or comments!
Additional Reading & Resources for Homeowners
- How to Remove Hard Water Stains From Toilets
- How To Remove a Dishwasher (Before New One Arrives!) – BestHomeGear.com
- How To Replace a Lavatory Faucet
