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John Sez:
By John Harris, Belcaro Paint, Paint Chemist
Unfortunately for many homeowners, there once was a technique of texturing a ceiling with a bumpy additive that was called popcorn texturing. Builders who used it claimed that it was helpful in lowering noise in the home, but it was really used more for the purpose of hiding surface flaws resulting from improper drywall work.
Today we not only consider popcorn ceilings dated and unsightly, but we are inconvenienced when repainting these ceilings becomes necessary. Properly washing these ceilings, which would normally be done, is almost impossible. Spray painting is the best way to repaint popcorn texture but spraying requires everything in the room be masked or covered. There is a special “split foam” roller cover that would be a next best option for painting. A normal roller cover will tangle with the texture and either pull off the popcorn or tear up the roller cover.
The best way to deal with popcorn textured ceilings, though not the least expensive way is to remove this texture. Some of the older popcorn texture materials may contain asbestos and should therefore be handled with care, so as not to release airborne asbestos fibers in your home.
According to the State Health Department, an individual single-family homeowner may remove this texture him/herself, however safety precautions should be observed, such as breathing protection, keeping the removed texture wet during removal, and disposing of the debris properly. To have this project accomplished by a professional, you should contact an authorized asbestos removal company. If you live in a multi-unit condo, there may be further restrictions on how you deal with removing popcorn texture from your ceilings, as your neighbors in the vicinity could be affected during this process. If you are one of these condo dwellers, you should check with your association for any restrictions they may have.
If you want to tackle this messy, laborious job yourself, use very warm water, some detergent and a 4” razor scrapper. Protect your floors and yourself from the fallout. It would be wise to start with the least conspicuous, smaller room in the house to get your technique mastered and to help you determine if you want to get into this. Above all, avoid creating a airborne dust from this material that could harm yourself, your family and your neighbors.
Belcaro Paint & Decorating Center, Inc.
5475 Leetsdale Dr., Denver, CO 80246 303-757-5435
or
209 W. Littleton Blvd., Littleton CO 80120 303-703-4487
email us
Belcaro website
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