Popcorn Ceiling Removal Tool vs. Similar Scraping Tools
Costing between $25 and $50, a popcorn ceiling removal tool has a tilted handle that provides the ideal angle for pushing into the dampened texture. A lower frame holds a trash or plastic shopping bag to catch most of the debris, and the blade’s rounded corners limit gouging of the delicate drywall paper surface or seam tape. But these same features also render it unusable for projects other than texture removal. Can you use other scraping tools that you might already have on hand? You can use a 6- or 12-inch drywall taping knife to scrape popcorn texture, but it’s a little more difficult than with a texture scraper. Taping knives have straight handles, making it more difficult to scrape at a low angle. Since taping knives cannot be attached to extension poles, you’ll need to work entirely from a ladder. Taping knives have sharp corners which can tear drywall paper—a problem remedied by rounding off the corners with a grinder or metal file.
Safety Considerations
If your house was built between 1945 and 1980, the textured popcorn ceiling may contain asbestos. Friable, air-borne asbestos may cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis if it is breathed in. Have the ceiling texture tested for asbestos before removing it.
How to Use a Popcorn Ceiling Removal Tool
To remove popcorn ceiling texture, you’ll need a ceiling texture scraper, a threaded-end extension pole, a 1-gallon pump sprayer, kitchen-size trash bags, duct tape, and plastic sheeting.
Tips and Troubleshooting Using a Ceiling Texture Scraper
Popcorn ceiling removal tools are best for unpainted popcorn ceilings or for ceiling painted with flat paint. Paint with any type of gloss (eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, or gloss) prevents the water from soaking in and loosening the popcorn texture. Frequently change out the catch bag to avoid overloading the tool. Whenever possible, scrape in the direction of the joint tape to avoid ripping it off. Expect that some scrapes and gouges will occur. Fix by smoothing over with drywall compound, then lightly sanding. After scraping, thoroughly dry out the moistened drywall with a fan before painting. With difficult ceilings, it’s often best to cover the popcorn texture with 1/4-inch or 1/2-inch drywall instead of removing it. Often, after removing the popcorn texture, the drywall may require some repairs prior to painting.
