To remove a popcorn ceiling, the most common method is a process called "wet scraping." Here are the summarized steps and key tips:
- Prepare the room by removing furniture or covering with plastic sheets. Cover floors with tarps and protect walls and fixtures. Wear safety gear including goggles and a respirator mask.
- Use a spray bottle or garden sprayer to lightly mist a small section of the ceiling with water. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes to soften the popcorn texture.
- Using a wide drywall knife or putty knife (often 12 inches wide), scrape the softened popcorn off the ceiling at a 45-degree angle with moderate pressure. Work in small sections and try to keep the knife flat to avoid gouging the drywall.
- If the popcorn does not come off easily, it may be because the ceiling has been painted or insufficient water was used—re-wet the area and wait longer.
- Clean up the floor and surrounding area frequently as the popcorn texture can be messy.
- After removal, sand the ceiling smooth with a drywall sander or sanding block to remove any leftover texture.
- Repair any gouges or damage with joint compound, prime the ceiling, and repaint to finish.
Removing popcorn ceilings is physically demanding and messy, but wet scraping is the most effective DIY approach if asbestos is not a concern. For painted ceilings or ceilings suspected of containing asbestos, professional advice is recommended.
