Popcorn Ceiling Removal

Textured popcorn ceilings went out of style years ago, but many older homes—and some new ones—still have them. While taking down a textured ceiling is not that difficult, it is a messy job that requires hard work and special safety precautions.

There are two potential problems that can turn removing a textured ceiling into a DIY nightmare: asbestos and paint. Acoustic texture manufactured before 1980 may contain asbestos and should be tested before being removed. While it doesn’t pose a health risk if left in place, removing a ceiling containing asbestos can stir up the fibers and cause them to become trapped in your lungs. Additionally, if paint has been applied over the texture, it prevents it from absorbing the water it needs to loosen the material. Although it can still be removed, it requires the application of a chemical stripper to breakdown the paint barrier.