Learn how to paint a popcorn ceiling and keep the mess to a bare minimum.
Flat or matte is the traditional sheen for ceilings since it reduces light bounce.
Popcorn Ceiling Options
Painting a popcorn ceiling is just one way to improve its appearance.
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you’re free to also cover it orremove the texture.
Safety Considerations
Some popcorn ceilings may contain asbestos.
As long as the asbestos is undisturbed, it can remain in place and be covered with paint.
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Cover the floor and all objects with plastic sheeting.
Remove ceiling light fixtures or tape around them withpainter’s tape.
Most plastic ceiling faceplates that cover electrical junction boxes can be painted over.
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Test for Asbestos
If you suspect that your ceiling texture contains asbestos, test the material.
Test for Coatings
Stand on a chair orladderand flick a few drops of water on the ceiling.
If the water beads up, the ceiling may have been painted with semi-gloss or glossy paint.
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Clean the Ceiling
Fit the brush attachment on the shop vacuum.
Vacuum the entire popcorn ceiling to remove dust and cobwebs.
Do not press firmly on the brush, as this can cause popcorn texture to flake off.
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Paint around ceiling lights and other obstructions.
Prepare to Roll Paint
Pour 2 to 3 gallons of paint into the 5-gallon bucket.
Hang the roller screen from the side of the bucket on the inside.
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Screw the roller frame onto the extension pole.
Add a roller cover with a 3/8-inch to 1/2-inch nap.
Dip the roller in the paint, then squeeze it out by rolling it on the roller screen.
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Roll out Paint
Roll the paint on the ceiling.
Start along one edge and finish a section about 4-foot by 4-foot.
Continue to an adjacent section and paint that.
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While the ceiling texture should be fully covered, it should not be so thick that it drips paint.
Add Second Coat
Open windows or turn on fans to promote airflow.
Allow the paint to dry for at least two hours.
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Apply a second coat.
Tips for Painting a Popcorn Ceiling
Learn About Asbestos.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
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How to Properly Remove Spray-on Popcorn Ceilings.
Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
