Get matched with top popcorn ceiling pros in Betsy Layne, KY

Professionals handle heavy lifting, proper disposal, and recycling, reducing environmental impact.

If your popcorn ceiling is asbestos-free and you are ready for a new look, painting is an option. As long as there is no flaking or other wear, a new coat of paint might be just the thing to refresh the old ceiling. The best way to paint a popcorn ceiling is to use either a paint sprayer or a thick roller to cover the popcorn texture fully. (Do not forget to dust it off beforehand!)

“Note that if you eventually want to remove the popcorn ceiling, a painted ceiling is a labor-intensive job to remove and will cost more,” says Bob Tschudi. “Once painted, the process of removing the popcorn ceiling requires physical scraping as opposed to a spray-and-scrape approach. It’s very labor-intensive, and thus more costly.”

Opinions on popcorn ceilings vary. They were once famous for their acoustic properties and ability to hide imperfections. Now, they can appear visually unappealing and difficult to clean. Additionally, popcorn ceilings may contain asbestos if installed before the 1990s, posing health risks if disturbed. However, some homeowners appreciate their retro charm or find them cost-effective for noise reduction. Ultimately, whether popcorn ceilings are "bad" depends on personal preference, safety concerns, and the overall aesthetic goals of the homeowner.

No, not all popcorn ceilings have asbestos, but a vast majority do. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned its use in 1973, although it still may have been used up through the early ‘90s. But, in general, homes built or remodeled before the early ‘80s likely utilized materials with asbestos. That being said, a professional test is the only way to determine for sure.