Throughout the 1930s to the 1990s, popcorn ceilings were installed in most homes. Recently, the style has become more obsolete and out-dated, leaving homeowners wanting to remove the dated ceiling look. If you find yourself wanting to get rid of your popcorn ceiling, we have the perfect DIY project for you. Let us get started!

Supply List:

• • Plastic Tarp
  • Spray Bottle
  • Drywall Knife
  • Wet/Dry Vacuum
  • Painter’s Tape
  • Sandpaper
  • Paint + Primer

Step One

Take off any air vents and cover or remove your light fixtures from the ceiling.

Step Two

Place a plastic tarp overtop of all of your furniture to prevent staining.

• Pro-Tip: Most homeowners find it easier to place all of their furniture into the center of the room then put one giant tarp overtop of all it. This way you do not have to buy multiple plastic tarps.

Step Three

Grab an empty spray bottle and fill it with warm water. Once the bottle is filled, lightly mist the ceiling.

Step Four

Let the dampened ceiling sit for approximately fifteen minutes.

Step Five

Taking a file, you will want to file down your drywall’s knife. This will help to avoid “gouging.”

Step Six

Attach your drywall knife to a wet/dry vacuum head.

• Pro-Tip: You can use painter’s tape to hold the pieces together.

Step Seven

Run the drywall knife + vacuum over your ceiling to remove the popcorn look.

Step Eight

Take sandpaper and run over any leftover rough patches.

Step Nine

Now that your ceiling has been “un-popcorned,” you will want to prime and paint the area. For suggestions on paint, contact your local paint store for their advice.

Step Ten

Let the ceiling dry before you move back your furniture and put the air vents/light fixtures back in place.

Please Note: It is essential to make sure you are safe during this project. Be sure to wear a face mask to avoid potential exposure to dust and debris. Also, if you own a home that was built before 1978,  you will need to test for lead and asbestos.