How to Repaint a Textured Blown-On Ceiling

There was a time when no homeowner would attempt any changes to a heavily textured ceiling. It was once thought that this texture, often called popcorn texture and blown on with a machine, was not worth the headache that painting it frequently provokes. This pain, however, may come from inadequate preparation, improper supplies or utilizing the wrong process. Once you know what you need to repaint your popcorn ceiling and the proper technique, changing the color overhead is not very difficult.

Plastic sheeting
Painter's tape
Shellac-based primer
Paint rollers, 3/4-inch nap
Telescoping paint-roller handle
Latex-based ceiling paint

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all of the free-standing items from the room. Cover floors and other surfaces with plastic sheeting. Hang more plastic sheeting over the walls with painter’s tape to prevent paint splatters.
- 2
  Apply shellac-based primer to the ceiling using a ¾-inch nap roller on a telescoping handle. Roll on the primer in long, even lines that overlap as little as possible. Let the single coat of primer dry overnight.
- 3
  Paint the ceiling with latex-based ceiling paint, applying the paint in long lines in the same way you applied the primer. Let the first coat of paint dry for a full day, and roll on a second. Do not simply try to use one thick coat of paint, as the popcorn texture will become heavily saturated and will drop away from the ceiling.
- 4
  Wait 24 hours to ensure the ceiling is very dry. Remove the plastic tarps from the floors and walls. Return the furniture and other items to the room.

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