Whether you’re remodeling an older home or just want to update the look of your ceilings, you may be wondering if you can simply spray over an existing popcorn ceiling. The short answer is yes, it is possible to spray a new ceiling texture over an existing popcorn ceiling in most cases. However, there are some important factors to consider before taking on this project.
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What is popcorn ceiling?
Popcorn ceiling, also known as acoustic ceiling or textured ceiling, refers to a spray-on ceiling finish that was very popular from the 1950s through the 1980s. It consists of drywall mud or a spackling compound that is sprayed onto the ceiling to create a bumpy, popcorn-like texture.
Popcorn ceiling was originally invented as an easy way to hide imperfections in ceilings. The rough, irregular texture helps conceal cracks, seams, and other flaws. It was also thought to have acoustic benefits which reduced echo and absorbed sound in rooms. Additionally, the textured finish hides uneven drywall joints and patches better than a smooth ceiling.
Can new texture be sprayed over existing popcorn?
In most cases, yes, it is possible to spray a new acoustic ceiling texture directly over an existing popcorn ceiling. There are spray-on ceiling textures specifically designed for resurfacing old ceilings, including over popcorn ceilings.
When applying a new spray-on texture over popcorn ceiling, a heavy-bodied texture should be used in order to completely cover the bumps and ridges of the existing ceiling. Light-bodied textures are too thin and will not fully mask the texture underneath.
Considerations before spraying over popcorn ceiling
While it may seem like an easy solution, there are a few important factors to take into account before simply spraying over an existing popcorn ceiling:
- Condition of existing ceiling – If the popcorn ceiling is damaged, peeling, crumbling, or shows signs of moisture it should be removed and repaired prior to respraying.
- Thickness – Multiple layers of texture build up quickly and can become very thick and heavy. This added weight stresses ceilings.
- Height – A heavy spray-on texture will reduce ceiling height somewhat.
- Access – Textured ceilings make it hard to access wiring, plumbing, etc. in the ceiling area.
- Asbestos – If building was constructed pre-1980s the popcorn ceiling should be tested for asbestos before disturbing it.
Removing existing popcorn ceiling
In many cases, removing the existing popcorn ceiling prior to respraying a new texture is recommended. Here are some benefits of removing rather than spraying over an old popcorn ceiling:
- Allows for complete renewal of the ceiling surface
- Removes existing flaws and damage
- Provides access to ceiling space for wiring, plumbing, insulation, etc.
- Reduces weight and stress on ceiling
- Removes potentially hazardous materials like asbestos
However, removing a popcorn ceiling is much more labor intensive than simply spraying over it. The process involves scraping or sanding the bumpy texture off, then cleaning and preparing the ceiling surface prior to respraying.
Popcorn ceiling removal process
Here is an overview of the popcorn ceiling removal process:
- Protect room interior – Cover floors, furniture, etc. with plastic drop cloths
- Spray ceiling with water or removal solution to suppress dust
- Scrape texture using a putty knife, scraper, or sander
- Wipe ceiling to clean off residual texture and dust
- Sand ceiling to smooth any uneven areas
- Clean ceiling then apply drywall sealer/primer
- Skim coat ceiling with joint compound if needed to create perfectly smooth surface
- Prime and paint ceiling
- Respray desired new texture
Safety gear like goggles, respirator mask, and protective clothing should always be worn during popcorn ceiling removal. And ceiling should be tested for asbestos first.
Asbestos concerns with popcorn ceilings
One major consideration with any existing popcorn ceiling is the potential for asbestos content. Asbestos was a commonly used additive in acoustic ceiling textures from the 1950s into the early 1980s.
When an asbestos-containing ceiling is disturbed during removal or the spraying process, harmful asbestos fibers are released into the air. Exposure to these airborne fibers can lead to serious health issues including respiratory disease and certain cancers.
Testing for asbestos
The only way to know for certain if a popcorn ceiling contains asbestos is to have it tested. There are do-it-yourself asbestos test kits available but it is best to hire an environmental test consultant to take samples for laboratory analysis.
Asbestos testing typically costs around $50 to $100 and takes a few days to get the lab results. This is a minor investment compared to the potential health risks of asbestos exposure.
Asbestos remediation
If testing confirms asbestos is present, specially trained abatement contractors must be hired to safely remove the ceiling using hazardous material handling techniques. The asbestos popcorn ceiling cannot simply be sprayed over or scraped off.
Asbestos abatement costs much more than basic ceiling texturing, ranging from $2 to $7 per square foot depending on ceiling accessibility and other factors. But this investment is worthwhile to protect the health of anyone in the home.
Choosing a new spray-on ceiling texture
Once the existing popcorn has been removed or safely covered over, it’s time to choose a new ceiling texture to respray. There are many different acoustic ceiling textures to consider for your project:
Popcorn
Yes, popcorn ceiling can be resprayed even after removal. Modern popcorn textures use asbestos-free formulations. A medium or light density popcorn provides texture without excessive thickness.
Knockdown
Knockdown is applied in two coats to create rounded, pebbly texture. It provides distinctive look while still absorbing sound well. Knockdown requires skill to spray properly.
Orange peel
Orange peel texture has a mottled look resembling an orange peel. It is a very common and versatile ceiling texture choice and easy for pros to apply.
Skip trowel
The skip trowel technique creates rows of flattened peaks and valleys. It takes some practice but results in a stylish, contemporary finish.
| Texture | Description | Density | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Popcorn | Bumpy, irregular texture | Light, medium or heavy | Beginner |
| Knockdown | Rounded pebbly finish | Medium | Intermediate to advanced |
| Orange Peel | Mottled texture like orange peel | Light or medium | Beginner |
| Skip Trowel | Flattened peaks in rows | Medium or heavy | Advanced |
There are also specialty spray textures like acoustical ceiling splatter and stomp brush finishes. Get recommendations from experienced spray texture pros on which options work best for your specific project.
DIY vs hiring a professional
While a handy do-it-yourselfer can tackle basic acoustic ceiling spraying, it’s highly advisable to hire professional spray texture contractors for best results, especially when working over an existing popcorn ceiling.
Factors that favor hiring pros include:
- Access to commercial spray rigs and professional materials
- Skilled technique and experience spraying ceilings
- Knowledge of how to properly prepare ceiling surface
- Ability to match existing texture
- Training in proper applications over popcorn ceilings
- Resources to remove asbestos hazards safely if present
DIY spray texturing can seem easy but without proper prep work, finish quality will suffer. Professionals have the tools and expertise to cover over or remove popcorn ceilings and respray new long-lasting, attractive textures.
Cost to spray over popcorn ceiling
Hiring professional acoustic ceiling contractors to spray over an existing popcorn ceiling typically costs $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot depending on ceiling access, geographic region, and texture type.
Knockdown texture costs slightly more than simpler textures like popcorn or orange peel. Additional drywall repairs or skim coating will also add expense if existing ceiling surface under popcorn has flaws.
Here are typical per square foot costs for common spray ceiling textures applied over an existing popcorn ceiling:
- Popcorn texture – $1.00 to $1.50 per sq.ft.
- Orange peel texture – $1.25 to $1.75 per sq.ft.
- Knockdown texture – $1.50 to $2.00 per sq.ft.
Most contractors charge minimum service fees of $300 to $500. Be sure to get an itemized estimate in writing before hiring a company.
Conclusion
It is possible to spray a new ceiling texture directly over an existing popcorn ceiling in many cases. However, the condition of the current ceiling and potential asbestos content should be assessed first to prevent safety hazards or a poor quality finished product.
Removing popcorn ceiling prior provides the best results but is more labor intensive and costly. Hiring a professional acoustic ceiling contractor is highly recommended over DIY spraying for proper prep work, high quality spraying technique, and to safely handle asbestos abatement if needed.