Popcorn ceilings were all the rage back in the ’60s and ’70s. Applying texture to drywall and plaster ceilings was a quick and easy way to hide imperfections with no painting required afterward. However, its rough texture attracts dust and cobwebs and makes patching cracks and holes a headache. Removing popcorn texture from a ceiling is a messy chore but worth the effort if the substrate underneath is in sound shape. Here are some ceiling removal tips to take some of the pain out of scraping the popcorn texture off your ceiling.
Do a Scrape Test
When learning how to remove popcorn ceilings, scrape a small test area first before committing to all the trouble of prepping the room. Try it dry first, then dampen it with water and try again. Some texture comes off easily without water, but in most cases wetting, it is the most effective. In the event that the water does not soak into the texture and soften it, the ceiling has probably been painted or paint has been added to the texture mix.
Test for Asbestos
If you have a popcorn ceiling installed before 1980, it is likely to contain asbestos, which is a known cause of lung cancer. Before removing any popcorn ceiling texture, contact your local health department and ask about getting a sample tested. If the test comes back positive, cover the popcorn with new drywall or tongue-and-groove planks, or hire an asbestos abatement contractor to help with removing the popcorn ceiling.
Prep for a Big Mess
Cover your floors and walls with plastic drop cloths as you begin the popcorn ceiling removal process. It is not recommended to use canvas drop cloths because water can soak through them. Using plastic drop cloths also makes cleanup easier, since they can be rolled up and thrown in the trash once your project is finished.
To get rid of your ceiling, hire Ian Decorations LLC. We offer reliable ceiling removal in Alexandria, VA. Contact us at (571) 368-5754 today!