Popcorn Ceilings Are Outdated – Here’s How to Remove Them

Popcorn ceilings were once a popular design choice, but today they often make interiors look outdated and unappealing. Many homeowners choose to remove them in favor of a smoother, more modern finish. If you're considering this change, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Why Remove a Popcorn Ceiling?

• Outdated Appearance – Popcorn ceilings were common in the 70s and 80s but now look old-fashioned compared to modern, smooth finishes.

• Difficult Maintenance – Their textured surface easily traps dust, cobwebs, and dirt, making them hard to clean.

• Potential Health Concerns – Older ceilings may contain asbestos, a hazardous material that requires professional removal.

• Enhanced Property Value – Homes with smooth ceilings are generally more appealing to buyers and can increase resale value.

• Better Lighting Effects – Popcorn texture can cast unwanted shadows and absorb light, making rooms appear darker and less inviting.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting the removal process, gather the necessary tools and supplies:

• Plastic sheeting or drop cloths to protect floors and furniture

• Painter’s tape to secure plastic sheeting to walls

• Spray bottle or garden sprayer for water application

• Putty knife or ceiling scraper

• Joint compound for patching imperfections

• Sandpaper (fine grit) for smoothing the surface

• Primer and ceiling paint

• Safety goggles and dust mask

• Ladder or scaffolding for high ceilings

  
  

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing a Popcorn Ceiling

1. Check for Asbestos

If your ceiling was installed before 1990, have a sample tested for asbestos before proceeding. If asbestos is found, do not attempt removal yourself—hire a certified professional for safe disposal.

2. Prepare the Room

• Remove all furniture or cover it with plastic sheeting.

• Turn off electricity in the room and remove or cover light fixtures.

• Cover walls and floors with plastic sheeting and secure them with painter’s tape.

• Wear safety goggles and a dust mask to protect yourself from debris.

  
  

3. Moisten the Ceiling for Easier Removal

• Fill a spray bottle or garden sprayer with warm water.

• Lightly mist a small section of the ceiling, allowing the water to soak in for about 10–15 minutes.

• Avoid over-saturating the area to prevent damage to the drywall underneath.

  
  

4. Scrape Off the Texture

• Use a putty knife or ceiling scraper to gently remove the softened texture.

• Hold the scraper at a slight angle and work in smooth, controlled strokes.

• Be careful not to gouge the drywall; if needed, respray stubborn areas and let them soak longer.

  
  

5. Repair and Smooth the Surface

• Once all texture is removed, inspect the ceiling for any damage or uneven spots.

• Apply joint compound to fill in cracks or imperfections.

• After the compound dries, sand the ceiling with fine-grit sandpaper until smooth.

  
  

6. Prime and Paint the Ceiling

• Apply a coat of primer to seal the surface and ensure better paint adhesion.

• Once the primer is dry, paint the ceiling in your desired color, typically a bright white for a clean, modern look.

• Use a roller with an extension pole for even application.

Should You DIY or Hire Professionals?

While removing a popcorn ceiling is possible as a DIY project, it requires time, patience, and effort. If your ceiling contains asbestos, or if you prefer a quicker and cleaner result, consider hiring a professional team with experience in ceiling refinishing. The cost of removal can vary, but you can easily calculate your estimate using our online calculator.

Final Thoughts

Removing a popcorn ceiling can dramatically enhance your home’s aesthetics, improve lighting, and even increase property value. Whether you take on the project yourself or hire professionals, the result will be a smoother, more modern ceiling that transforms the look and feel of your space.