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What Is A Popcorn Ceiling

What was the point of popcorn ceilings?

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. It was time-effective and cost-efficient. Often called an acoustic ceiling, it also served the purpose to absorb sound and reduce noise.

What is the difference between a popcorn ceiling and a textured ceiling?

The “popcorn” ceilings have bigger chunks, about the size of cottage cheese and is blown on by a spray gun. A textured ceiling can be a thin coat of joint compound that has a “knock-down” texture, or swirl texture, or even a sprayed-on “orange peel” texture.

Why is popcorn ceiling poor?

The main issue with popcorn ceilings is that they contain asbestos. Homes built before the 1970s likely have popcorn ceilings that contain asbestos. However, the ban did not state that asbestos-containing popcorn texture could not be used. This meant that there were many who still utilized it well into the 1980s.

How do you know if you have popcorn ceiling?

You can test a popcorn ceiling for the presence of asbestos by carefully scraping a small sample into a plastic bag and having it tested at an EPA-accredited lab. While homeowners are allowed to remove a popcorn ceiling that contains the material, a professional asbestos remediation company should do the job.

Should I remove popcorn ceiling?

If you discover that your popcorn ceilings contain asbestos, don’t panic—and don’t try to remove it yourself. Removing it will cause the particles to escape into the air, making it easy for you and your family to breathe in the carcinogens.

Why are popcorn ceilings cheaper?

They’re cheap and easy to install, and because of their acoustic properties, popcorn ceilings can cut down on sound in multi-story houses and high-traffic areas such as entryways and hallways.

What is most popular ceiling finish?

Here are some of the common textured ceiling designs to get your creative juices flowing: Popcorn Ceilings. Orange Peel Texture. Skip Trowel. Knockdown Ceiling Texture. Stippled. Swirl. Lace.

Are stamped ceilings out of style?

Although textured ceilings are currently used in many homes, some people might view its appearance as outdated or unappealing. If you’re looking to make your house look as contemporary as possible, this is something to keep in mind.

Are smooth ceilings worth it?

Smooth ceilings add visual height and spaciousness to rooms and hallways. In contrast, stippled or textured ceilings draws your focus to the texture, making the room seem smaller. 3. Spaces with smooth ceilings maximize the light.

Do popcorn ceilings devalue a home?

In short, removing a popcorn ceiling can increase your home value. However, particular circumstances can affect its impact. Removing popcorn ceilings from a smaller home may not be a good use of renovation money. As long as it’s in good condition, a fresh coat of paint may be the better option due to cost.

Should I be worried about popcorn ceiling?

However, popcorn ceilings are constructed from highly friable (crumbly) materials, and even the slightest disturbance can release toxic asbestos dust into the air. If inhaled, asbestos dust can lead to serious health issues, such as chronic coughing, shortness of breath, asbestosis, mesothelioma, and even lung cancer.

Are popcorn ceilings coming back in style?

No. When left intact and undisturbed, these materials do not pose a health risk to people living in it. Despite the outdated style, and, well, asbestos, popcorn ceilings still top many homes throughout the US. But, if you are looking into buying a new property, you’re going to want that sucker gone.

When did they stop putting 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.

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.

Can I paint over popcorn ceiling?

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.

Is it OK to drywall over popcorn ceiling?

Covering the ceiling with drywall is a very inexpensive option, but it can be hard work to lift and attach 8-foot-long drywall panels overhead, unless you rent a special drywall lifting tool. Installing drywall also requires finishing skills that are challenging for many DIYers.

What is the cheapest way to cover a ceiling?

Here are some affordable ways to beautify your home’s ceilings: Paint. It’s a great way to change the perception of your space. Tin Tiles. Hide damage and uneven surfaces with tin ceiling tiles that introduce a vintage vibe. Moldings and More. Tiles or Planks.