Problems With Popcorn Ceilings

Appearance

• While once a popular look, many homeowners don't like the look of a popcorn ceiling. The texture detracts from the overall look of the room. Popcorn ceilings also look dated, making your overall room look like it needs remodeled. Removing the texture is a messy and time-consuming task if you want to change the look of the ceiling. You may also discover blemishes or inconsistencies in the drywall ceiling once the popcorn texture comes down.

Cleaning

• Cleaning a popcorn ceiling is difficult. When dirt or cobwebs collect on the ceiling, they become stuck onto the texture pieces. Bits of paper towel tear off and stick to the texture if you use it for cleaning. If you use a brush or broom to wipe the ceiling, you may knock bits of the texture off, leaving bare spots on the ceiling.

Painting

• The textured surface of a popcorn ceiling makes repainting difficult. Since cleaning isn't easy, you may end up with cobwebs or dirt on the ceiling that affects how well the paint sticks. You also get an uneven coating of paint since the ceiling texture is inconsistent. In many cases, the texturing material comes off of the ceiling in spots as you roll the wet paint over it, which potentially leaves your ceiling looking worse than when you started.

Asbestos

• Popcorn ceiling material often contained asbestos before the material was banned. While it was outlawed in 1978, companies that already had inventory containing asbestos could continue using it, which means homes built into the 1980s could potentially have popcorn ceilings that contain asbestos. You need to have the popcorn ceiling tested for asbestos before you begin removing it. The asbestos won't cause harm unless it is disturbed, which can happen when you remove, paint or clean it. Removal from a professional with experience in asbestos is an expensive project.