BLOGS

Popcorn ceilings used to be an extremely convenient and popular trend in homes. Adding this type of texture to a home's ceilings was quick since builders did not have to spend as much time making the ceiling look smooth and neat. This technique also allowed them to cover imperfections. Although these ceilings were trendy back in the day, they are not so popular now. If you do not care for the popcorn texture on your home's ceilings, here are the steps you should take to remove it.

1. Test a Section

Before you start scraping your entire ceiling, you will want to test a few sections first. Performing some tests will help you understand which process will work best to remove the popcorn and whether there is asbestos present. To begin, try scraping off a section dry at first. If this does not work, try wetting it and see if that makes it easier. If neither of these methods work, you may want to consider covering the ceiling instead. Once you have scraped some sections off, keep them handy and have them tested for asbestos. Asbestos is a hazardous mineral often found in the fibers of your home's walls or ceilings that can cause lung cancer. You can contact your local health department and have them perform the test.

2. Prep Your Ceiling

Once you have determined it will be safe and relatively easy to remove the popcorn, you should begin preparing your ceiling. Tape some plastic wrap to your walls and floors and cover or remove any furniture in the room so it does not get dirty. You will also want to remove fans and light fixtures from the ceiling and shut off electrical boxes.

Once you have ensured the room's furniture, flooring, and electrical features are safe from harm, start wetting the ceiling. You can use a garden hose or sprayer to do this, but do not forget that you should not saturate the surface too much. Doing so can cause damage to the drywall underneath. Just spray the ceiling lightly and allow the water to soak for about 15 minutes.

3. Start Scraping the Popcorn Off

Once the room has been prepped, you can start scraping the popcorn off the ceiling. Tackle small sections at a time and keep wetting your ceiling, as necessary. Once you have finished scraping the entire ceiling, sand it and prepare to paint it.

Scraping popcorn ceilings is a simple project that will add value to your home, but if you do not have the time or patience to do it yourself, you can enlist the help of a professional. Green Haven Homes can help you design a home with a style that reflects your personality by involving you in the most critical steps of the building and designing process.