How much paint for a popcorn ceiling?

Kim Gilster
by Kim Gilster
I live in an apartment that needs the ceiling painted and I am going to roll it. I don't have the money for a sprayer and have found a good deal on quality paint. Since I know it is going to take more paint than a wall, does anyone know how to calculate the amount of paint needed for this? I have searched all over and found no answer. Thank You

  8 answers
  • Dfm Dfm on May 25, 2018

    Measure the room under the ceiling that you paint. Then find the total area Of the room below. Yup math.

    • Kim Gilster Kim Gilster on May 25, 2018

      A popcorn ceiling takes more paint than a standard wall. So the same math does not apply. That is the reason I am asking.

  • 17335038 17335038 on May 25, 2018

    Good question. However, you did not say whether you were the landlord of the apartment or the tennant. If you are renting or leasing, then be sure to obtain the landlord's written permission to approve your proposed paint job, before you start anything.

    Without doing this first, then even though you may have best intentions to improve the decor of the apartment, you may not only lose your damage deposit, but could also be fined for making unauthorized changes.

  • Landsharkinnc Landsharkinnc on May 25, 2018

    not all paint is to be used on popcorn ceilings -- be sure you have a paint for CEILINGS -- not a 'wall' paint -- regardless of cost! If the ceiling is plain sheetrock -- then you'll be okay with a standard latex flat - not an eggshell

  • Rymea Rymea on May 25, 2018

    Plan on at least two coats maybe three. Roll on the first coat lightly with out going back and forth over it. Let it dry completely. That will stick the popcorn together and keep it from coming off. Then proceed with more coats. I've painted a few popcorn ceilings and some are easier than others. I would not use a roller. I would get a spray can of Kills and use that for the first coat at least.

  • Kim Gilster Kim Gilster on May 25, 2018

    Yes, I understand that. I have been researching :)


  • Dfm Dfm on May 25, 2018

    Calculate the area below and double it. Use a thicker napped roller.

  • Kim Gilster Kim Gilster on May 25, 2018

    Ok, Thank you

  • B. Enne B. Enne on May 25, 2018

    Use a thick fluffy roller 1" +, and not the slotted foam ones for that purpose...they are useless.

    https://ecopainting.ca/residential-painting/colour-consultant/how-to-paint-popcorn-ceiling/