How to remove popcorn texture from 1970s-era ceiling?

Question

Hello - I have a very broad question - 'm looking at buying a house that has a texture / popcorn effect (I wasn't able to climb up to touch as I was just viewing the home). It's in two rooms. The house is 1970s build - 2.7m ceilings. The agent claimed it was it was "easy" to remove. The rest of the home had normal gyprock/plasterboard ceilings. I don't have a picture. Would I need to remove the ceiling and re-do or would this be something easy to remove i.e. scrape of the effect and patch/paint.

Caron · Answer

Thank you Eric and Dave, appreciate the detailed replies. I didnt even consider asbestos. Would definitely need professionals to do the job then, Both rooms are big spaces so have decided against purchasing the house. This wasnt the only factor (there were a couple of other things), but cost involved when adding all the things together is more than I originally thought.

Very much appreciate the responses!

Caron

Dave-1 · Answer

Good Afternoon @Caron

From what I have heard of popcorn ceilings its a pain in the neck job. Ive only heard one person say "it was easy" and that was so long ago it isnt funny. @EricL 's words I would strongly listen to and I would get the roof tested befo9re attempting anything. I can imgine working on a concrete ceiling without damaging the actual ceiling, on a plaster ceiling I think id be gouging it. It may be worth while to factor in the replace those two rooms worth of ceilings when considering the purchase price of the house.

Or you could get a quote to do it professionally and factor that in. It will at least show if it will be hard/time consuming or a no no to start with.

Dave

EricL · Answer

Hello @Caron

Thank you for sharing your question about your popcorn ceiling. Before you begin, I suggest having your ceiling tested for asbestos just to be on the safe side. The last thing you want to happen is to get exposed to deadly hazards while you are renovating. If the test is positive, you'll need to engage the services of a professional asbestos removal specialist. If the test is negative, you can continue with your renovation.

Depending on the current condition of the popcorn paint texture, it can be removed using a

https://www.bunnings.com.au/trojan-100mm-paint-scraper_p0093214

. Some sections will need to be patched due to the scrapper cutting into the ceiling plaster, but it's not a difficult repair step.

My best advice is to cover the floor area with painters drop sheet and securing it with masking tape. This will make the tidy up much faster and all the paint and sanding dust can be quickly removed.

On the condition that the test is negative. Please remember to wear personal protection such as appropriate clothing, closed toe shoes, gloves, goggles and a mask.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag and @DIY4Knuckleheds for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric