QA

Quick Answer: How To Scrape Popcorn Off Ceiling

How to Scrape a Popcorn Ceiling. When scraping popcorn ceilings, you’ll want to use a 4-inch utility knife or a drywall knife to chip away at the texture and create a smooth surface. You’ll probably need to skim it with a thin layer of joint compound to smooth out imperfections, then sand it smooth before repainting.

Is it worth it to remove popcorn ceiling?

It’s time consuming and annoying, so if you’re bothered enough by it you can have it removed. It’s worth remembering that removing the ceiling in itself will cause a lot more dirt and dust around your home, at least while the work is being carried out. If you’re ok with that, then removing the ceiling is a good idea.

How much does it cost to remove popcorn from the ceiling?

If you’re wondering how to get rid of popcorn ceiling, you should know that removing a popcorn ceiling is a labor-intensive job, and the cost reflects it. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to remove a popcorn ceiling is between $1 and $2 per square foot. The average homeowner will pay around $1,780.

Can popcorn ceiling be sanded off?

When scraping popcorn ceilings, you’ll want to use a 4-inch utility knife or a drywall knife to chip away at the texture and create a smooth surface. You’ll probably need to skim it with a thin layer of joint compound to smooth out imperfections, then sand it smooth before repainting.

Will removing popcorn ceiling increase home value?

By removing popcorn ceilings, you are increasing your home value and ridding your home of the “outdated” look. One important note: If the popcorn was added before 1979, get it tested for asbestos.

Can I remove popcorn ceiling myself?

Removing a popcorn ceiling is a fairly easy and affordable DIY project that just requires some time and muscle. Should your ceiling need more TLC than just scraping and painting, there are also options for covering up popcorn ceilings, such as wood paneling, pressed tin tiles, or new drywall.

How do you smooth out a popcorn ceiling?

If you want to chip away at the texture and create a smooth surface after scraping popcorn ceilings, you’ll need a 4-inch utility knife or a drywall knife. If you want to smooth out imperfections, you’ll probably need to skim it with a thin layer of joint compound, then sand it smooth before painting.

Do all popcorn ceilings have asbestos?

Do All Popcorn Ceilings Have Asbestos? So, in 1977, the U.S. government banned the use of asbestos in ceilings and most ceilings installed after this date, would not contain any asbestos. So, yes, most popcorn ceilings have asbestos, especially if they were installed before 1977 or the ban.

How do I know if my popcorn ceiling has asbestos?

Unfortunately, you generally can’t tell whether a popcorn ceiling contains asbestos by examining it visually. If your home was built before the mid-1980s, there’s a good chance your popcorn ceiling has asbestos in it. The best way to determine if asbestos is present is to have your ceiling professionally tested.

Is it cheaper to remove popcorn ceiling or replace drywall?

The cost to scrape, remove and refinish a popcorn ceiling is around $. 85 cents per square foot when few repairs are needed and you do the work yourself. To hire a painter or drywall contractor, expect an estimated cost of around $2.25 / square foot to remove the popcorn and finish the ceiling.

Can you paint over popcorn ceilings?

Interior acrylic-latex paint is the best type of paint to use for popcorn ceilings. If you need to protect your ceiling from moisture, though, use eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss paint sheens. Popcorn texture ceilings require more paint than flat ceilings.

WHO removes popcorn ceilings?

One of your best options for removing popcorn ceiling in your home is to hire a drywall contractor near you. Not only are drywall contractors well-versed in ceilings, but they also have the skills, experience, and equipment needed to complete the job well. Removing the popcorn ceiling costs $900 to $2,800.

Can you sell a home with popcorn ceiling?

If you want to sell your home quickly, removing the popcorn texture may be a good investment. Homebuyers will make offers on homes that need no work. It could be the difference between the home sitting on the market or getting sold within a few days. The property’s condition and appearance also need to be considered.

Why are popcorn ceilings a thing?

What is a popcorn ceiling? Many homes built in the late 1930s through the 1990s have popcorn ceilings or some type of texture applied overhead. It was used to cover up a lot of flaws in the ceiling. Often called an acoustic ceiling, it also served the purpose to absorb sound and reduce noise.

How long does it take to remove popcorn ceiling?

If you go with traditional methods — that is, scraping and removing, then resurfacing your ceilings — and hire a professional, you can expect approximately 20 hours of work to remove and replace your popcorn ceiling a 500sq foot area.

When did they stop using asbestos in popcorn ceilings?

In 1977, the U.S. Government banned the use of asbestos in ceiling finishes, and most ceilings installed after this date will not contain asbestos. It is still possible, however, that materials manufactured before 1977 were installed in homes after the ban.