Repairing a popcorn ceiling may seem daunting, but armed with the knowledge and tools, it's an achievable project. Patience and attention to detail are key, so take your time. With each scrape, patch, and paint stroke, you'll be one step closer to a flawless finish you can be proud of for years. This physically demanding DIY isn’t for everyone, so consider hiring a ceiling repair pro if you need help. For anyone ready to take it on, here’s how to repair a popcorn ceiling.
Prepping to Fix a Popcorn Ceiling
Gather the necessary tools and supplies and ensure the workspace is ready for repair. Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheets to protect floors and furniture from debris. You'll also want adequate ventilation, so consider opening a few windows.
Next, assess the extent of the ceiling's damage and plan your approach accordingly, whether scraping away damaged texture, patching holes, or applying primer. If your ceiling has extensive damage, call a ceiling repair specialist.
Moisten the Area
Use a spray bottle filled with warm water to mist the popcorn texture lightly. Allow the water to soak in to loosen it from the ceiling surface. Spray all the areas needing repair at the same time to soften up areas while you are scraping other spots.
When using a steamer, prioritize safety. Wear goggles, a mask, and work gloves to protect yourself from hot steam, fumes, and potential debris. Adjust the steamer settings according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring the steam isn't too hot or forceful. Consider testing the steamer in a small, inconspicuous area to gauge effectiveness without causing damage.
Start from one corner of the room and move systematically across the ceiling. Focus on small ceiling sections at a time, holding the steamer nozzle close enough for effectiveness with damage. Patience is key during this slow and methodical process, allowing the steam to soften the texture for easier removal without rushing or applying excessive force to avoid ceiling damage.
While the popcorn texture is soft, use a putty knife or scraper to remove the damaged sections. Hold your tool at a slight angle to the ceiling surface to minimize damage to the underlying drywall. Apply moderate pressure and vary your scraping motion by going across and diagonally to the texture pattern to loosen it more effectively.
Be prepared to encounter stubborn spots that may require extra effort and steam to remove. Take breaks during this process to avoid fatigue because scraping is hard work. Clean up periodically while scraping. Wipe the steamer nozzle and surrounding area to prevent debris and moisture buildup.
Patch and Sand
Photo: Marccophoto / E+ / Getty Images
Inspect the ceiling for holes, cracks, or uneven areas. Grab a putty knife to apply joint compound to these areas, filling them in and creating a smooth surface. Work methodically, ensuring even coverage and feathering the edges of the patched areas to blend.
Once the joint compound has dried completely—which can take 24 hours—sand the patched areas using sandpaper or a sanding block working in circular motions to smooth out any unevenness.
After sanding, clean the ceiling surface with a damp cloth or sponge. You want to remove all lingering dust or debris.
Apply the Popcorn Paint or Patch
Once the ceiling is dry, add the texture. When spraying on the popcorn texture, work in small sections at a time. Apply the first coat in one direction, slightly overlapping each stroke to ensure uniform coverage and avoid leaving visible lines or streaks behind.
Once the first coat has dried, apply the second coat in the opposite direction, perpendicular to the first. This cross-hatch technique helps ensure thorough coverage and fills in gaps or missed spots. Allow the second coat to set before moving on.
Prime and Paint the Ceiling
Photo: eyecrave productions / E+ / Getty Images
Apply primer evenly to the surface using a thick-nap roller to ensure adhesion and coverage.
Work in small sections. The primer must be completely dry before painting. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding drying times.
Follow the same process when painting, again using a thick-nap roller. Apply multiple coats as needed, allowing each coat to dry completely before proceeding to ensure a beautiful and durable finish.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Whether to fix a popcorn ceiling yourself or hire a local ceiling repairperson depends on your skill level and the extent of the damage. DIY can save money and offer a sense of accomplishment, but fixing extensive damage is exhaustive and exposes you to dust and debris.
Hiring a popcorn ceiling professional may be the better option to ensure quality results and avoid potential safety hazards like asbestos. Additionally, professionals have the expertise and specialized tools to tackle the job efficiently, saving you time and hassle in the long run. The average cost of ceiling repair is $1,020 but can be as little as $150.
Frequently Asked Questions
When steaming falls short, consider utilizing a commercial texture remover tailored for popcorn ceiling removal. Adhere closely to the manufacturer's guidelines and conduct a preliminary test in an inconspicuous spot to verify compatibility with your ceiling. This specialized product offers an alternative solution for stubborn texture removal, potentially streamlining the process while safeguarding the integrity of your ceiling surface. Remember, products like these may be high-VOC, so wear protective gear.
Opinions on popcorn ceilings vary. They were once famous for their acoustic properties and ability to hide imperfections. Now, they can appear visually unappealing and difficult to clean. Additionally, popcorn ceilings may contain asbestos if installed before the 1990s, posing health risks if disturbed. However, some homeowners appreciate their retro charm or find them cost-effective for noise reduction. Ultimately, whether popcorn ceilings are "bad" depends on personal preference, safety concerns, and the overall aesthetic goals of the homeowner.
Deirdre is a seasoned DIYer and home improvement writer. She believes in the transformative powers of deep cleaning and painting to revitalize any space. Her articles have appeared in HomeLight, The Spruce, Realtor, and more.
Deirdre is a seasoned DIYer and home improvement writer. She believes in the transformative powers of deep cleaning and painting to revitalize any space. Her articles have appeared in HomeLight, The Spruce, Realtor, and more.
The homeowners guide to Plaster
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
