Popcorn ceilings became a popular addition to households from the 1950s through the 1980s. This gave ceilings a textured finish and was found in various residential buildings during this period. They were also known as stucco ceiling or cottage cheese ceiling, owing to the texture’s resemblance.
This type of ceiling helped hide flaws, while also being cheap and fast to install. This article explores how popcorn ceilings are made and their widespread use at one point in time.
Why Were Popcorn Ceilings Popular?
One of the primary attractions of this type of ceiling was that it extended a unique look to the room. The texture was more cost-effective and time-saving for painting crews because it made covering up ceiling flaws much easier. Buildings were completed much faster due to the quick, affordable application, which was also essential during the economic period of World War 2.
They are also known for their sound-absorption feature, which helps create a much calmer environment by reducing loud noises. This especially benefits buildings like schools and apartments, as they are more prone to loud noises in the area.
Why did Popcorn Ceilings Popularity Decline?
One of the major reasons for popcorn ceilings' popularity declining was the growing concern about asbestos. Many ceilings installed before the 1980s contained asbestos, a hazardous material whose fibres are released into the air when disturbed. If the ceiling is damaged over time or disturbed during renovation, there is a risk of asbestos fibers being released.
Due to this health and safety concern, homeowners with popcorn ceilings in properties built before 1980 are advised to have the ceilings tested for asbestos. A certified professional must test the ceiling before any renovation work. If asbestos is found, it is best to have a professional intervene.
How are Modern Popcorn Ceilings Applied?
For homeowners looking to hide minor ceiling imperfections with a subtle texture, modern popcorn ceiling products offer a safe and accessible option. Today, popcorn textures are not made of asbestos and can be applied using a hopper gun. It comes as a dry powder that should be mixed with water as directed on the package.
Make sure the room is prepared before applying. To control overspray, remove or cover furniture, drape walls with plastic sheeting, and use a drop cloth on the floor. Popcorn texture comes in the standard ceiling-white shade. It is also best to prime the ceiling before applying, as it helps create a more uniform look. The texture can also be painted once it dries, giving homeowners the option to apply any colour they prefer to enhance the space's aesthetics.
Application Technique
Step 1: Once the popcorn texture mixture is ready, fill the hopper gun with the mixture about halfway.
Step 2: Before applying it directly to the ceiling, test the spray pattern on any piece of cardboard or scrap drywall. This will help you get comfortable handling the spray.
Step 3: During the application, the spray gun must be held approximately 18 inches (about 46cm) from the ceiling. Then move it slowly and evenly in a back-and-forth motion. It is best to start applying from one corner of the room and work your way across to ensure consistent coverage.
Step 4: If the spray does not reach the corners or edges, it is better to use a trowel to spread the texture mixture into nooks and corners. This can also be done with the edges, ensuring the entire ceiling is evenly covered.
Step 5: Once the first coat is applied, let it sit for about 15 minutes. You may then reapply a second layer of thin coat. If needed, additional thin layers can be applied until the desired texture is achieved. It is best to let the texture dry for 24 hours before removing the drop clothes or other coverings.
How to Remove Popcorn Ceilings?
Removing an unpainted popcorn ceiling is manageable, but it can still be messy and time-consuming. The ceiling must be sprayed with water to saturate and loosen the texture. Once it releases, it can be scraped away with a large putty knife or a taping trowel.
If it is a painted popcorn ceiling, then water alone will not saturate the texture. In this case, a stripping product will be beneficial, which is specifically designed to remove popcorn ceilings. These solutions come in gel form in order to reduce dripping, and they must be rolled or brushed on the ceiling. After giving the product adequate time to soften the paint and texture, both can be scraped using a wide trowel.
This can be a tedious and messy task; it is important to have all the protective gear. It should include a face mask, eye protection, and clothing that will be discarded later. Without gears, the process can be hazardous, as the fibres released pose health risks. Keeping the texture damp helps minimize the release of fibers.
Conclusion
It is very important to understand how popcorn ceilings are made. This will help homeowners decide if they should opt for a modern form of popcorn ceilings that are free of asbestos. It also helps in deciding whether to keep or remove these textured ceilings in their homes.