Removing painted popcorn ceiling is not an impossible project to tackle by the average Joe, it does require energy and time. It also requires a set of safety measurement, such as such as protective clothing, goggles, and respirator or dust mask.
It also has to be noted that getting rid of popcorn ceiling that has been painted is wholly different from removing regular popcorn ceiling. The coat of paint sticks to the ceiling and it serves as a sealing layer. Before you can take off the popcorn ceiling itself, you need to set aside extra time to shred the painting surface. Then, you can follow a few of tips for removing painted popcorn ceiling below to perform the job more easily and properly.
First tip is to prepare the room by removing all the furniture inside including the light fixtures, but if it’s not possible then you may simply cover them with plastic or fabric material. It is also recommended to switch off the cooling and heating system temporarily and cover or close off the vent system by using painter’s tape and plastic. You also need to cover the wall switches and power outlets. Guard the floor by using rosin paper or plastic.
Afterwards, follow the guide on removing painted popcorn ceiling below:
- Create a mixture solution of vinegar and water with 1:10 proportion.
- Spray the mixture on the ceiling’s surface to breakdown the paint and let it penetrate to the coat so you can scrape it away more easily
- Scrape the paint layer using a 3” scraper or utility knife slowly and carefully
An important thing that you have to remember is that popcorn ceiling made pre-1980s may have asbestos substance in it. You need to send a small sample as a material for laboratory test to determine if it indeed contains asbestos. Even though asbestos is harmless when it kept intact, it poses damaging material that can be trapped in lungs due to its airborne fiber, which may lead to severe health problems, such as cancer.
There is an asbestos home test kit you can buy to help you scrape the sample of your ceiling texture, store it safely in sealable bag, and send it to a testing lab. It is best to contact the testing service provider to come to the building before taking the sample to prevent any possible health risk. In addition, most professionals would also suggest conducting a test of lead paint presence aside from asbestos. If the results come as clear, then you can safely follow the steps of removing painted popcorn ceiling above.
