Page 6 - Real Estate Now-Mar/Apr 2022

How to Remove Popcorn Ceilings

Gord Brown courtesy Realtor.ca
f you live in an older home—or even some modern builds—there’s a good chance popcorn ceilings are commanding
the overhead views. If you’re getting tired of this feature and plan to remove it, then you’ve come to the right place.
ILet’s find out what you need to know about removing popcorn ceilings from your home.

What is a popcorn ceiling?
Popcorn ceilings—also known as stucco, stipple or Artex—are marked by their bumpy texture, though they can be
characterized by swirling designs, or peaks that look like the top of a meringue pie. The plaster-based material was
originally called Artex, after the UK-based company that developed the textured finishing technique as a way to hide
imperfections and seams in ceilings. The application also provided a minor sound-dampening effect.

From 1945 until the 1980s, popcorn ceilings were a popular feature in the construction of most North American
homes. Popularity peaked in the 1970s with a varying range of designs and textures gracing ceilings across the
continent.

Asbestos fibers were originally incorporated into the plaster for added strength, while also acting as a fire retardant.
Due to the severe health effects of air-born asbestos and the associated risks involved with building or renovating
when it is present, it was eventually removed from production in the 1980s.

Testing for asbestos
Before attempting any kind of removal, make sure the material used for your popcorn ceiling is asbestos-free,
especially if your home was built before 1986. While DIY asbestos test kits are available, they can sometimes be
inaccurate. Although hiring a professional may cost more, it’s worth the extra peace of mind when this carcinogenic
material is involved.
In the event asbestos is present, you’ll need to make a judgment call on moving forward with smoothing out your
ceilings. It’s recommended to use an asbestos abatement professional to execute a safe removal. This may not be the
ideal outcome for die-hard DIYers, but your household’s long-term health and safety–not to mention you and your
family’s health and safety–always comes first.
Tools and supplies

You’ll want to pick up a few things at your local hardware store and be prepared for a messy undertaking. Here’s what
you need:
• dust mask or respirator
• safety goggles
• plastic sheeting (to cover furniture, floors, and walls)
• painter’s masking tape
• popcorn ceiling scraper or floor scraper
• a wide, flexible putty/plaster knife
• spray bottle (a pump pressure sprayer is ideal)
• garbage bags
• mud pan (to catch the wet plaster)
• drywall sander
• drywall tape
• a joint compound

6 | REAL ESTATE NOW | LB@LoraleeBurns.com