Removing a textured or popcorn ceiling can be a messy and labor-intensive process if not performed by a professional painting company with the right equipment. We minimize the mess by the following steps to safely remove a textured ceiling:
- We start by preparing the room: All furniture and other items must first be removed from the room that could be damaged during the texture removal process. We cover the floor with drop cloths or construction paper to catch falling debris.
- We identify the type of texture: There are several types of textured ceilings, including popcorn, knockdown, and orange peel. Knowing the type of texture will help us determine the best way to remove it.
- We remove any fixtures: Light fixtures, ceiling fans, and vent covers should be removed before starting the textured ceiling removal process.
- We create small holes: Using a putty knife or drywall saw, we create small holes in the textured ceiling. This will help us to identify the type of texture, and also allows us to remove the texture in small sections.
- We sand the texture: We use a powerful dustless sander to remove as much of the texture as possible from the ceiling. We are careful not to damage the drywall underneath.
- We skim the ceiling: We use drywall mud to skim and smooth the ceiling. We sand the drywall mud smooth after it dries, applying more as needed to create a smooth ceiling.
- We vacuum the debris: We use a vacuum, broom, and dustpan to remove the debris from the floor. Then we empty the debris into a sealed trash bag to prevent the release of dust in the air.
- We prime the ceiling: We apply a coat of PVA Drywall Primer to the entire ceiling before painting.
- We paint the ceiling: We apply one coat of CHB to the entire ceiling. The CHB can be tinted. If it is, we may need to apply two coats for coverage.
It’s important to note that some types of texture, such as popcorn texture, may contain asbestos, which can be a health hazard if inhaled. If your textured ceiling is more than 30 years old, it’s recommended to have it tested for asbestos before removing it. If it has asbestos, we will wear protective clothing and have a full respirator set up.
