How do I remove a popcorn ceiling?

Hi Traci. Begin by removing all the furniture and seal the room off. Work in small sections. Spray warm water on the ceiling, let it set 10 or 15 mins. Then begin scraping. You can use a scraper but I have also heard of people using spatulas and even garden hoes. Who knew, right? Your local hardware store will have a selection of scrapers to choose from. This job creates a lot of dust. I recommend using a mask. Good luck Traci.

Here's a post that might help - https://www.familyhandyman.com/drywall/ceiling-texture/how-to-remove-a-popcorn-ceiling/

Cover and protect everything, including yourself - especially your hair. Saturate a 3' area with warm water and let sit for 10 minutes then scrape. This is a great tool:Homax 6100 Ceiling Texture Scraper

Traci.....There are great videos that show everything about the removal. Just take a look at Google.

Hi Traci, hope this video helps you out,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLb4mTC1_dI

Removing a popcorn ceiling can transform a room, making it feel more modern and open. Here's a step-by-step guide to safely removing a popcorn ceiling:

Materials You'll Need:

1. Plastic drop cloths or tarps
2. Painter's tape
3. Spray bottle filled with water
4. Wide putty knife or drywall taping knife (6-12 inches)
5. Stepladder
6. Sandpaper or sanding block (optional)
7. Joint compound (for patching)
8. Safety gear: dust mask, safety goggles, gloves

Step 1: Test for Asbestos

If your home was built before 1980, there's a chance that the popcorn ceiling contains asbestos. You should hire a professional to test the ceiling. If it contains asbestos, you'll need a licensed asbestos abatement contractor to remove it.

Step 2: Prep the Room

1. Cover everything: Remove all furniture or cover it with plastic. Lay down drop cloths or tarps on the floor and tape plastic to the walls to protect them.
2. Turn off the power: If you have light fixtures on the ceiling, turn off the power to the room to avoid any electrical hazards.

Step 3: Wet the Ceiling

1. Fill a spray bottle with water and lightly mist the ceiling, focusing on a small section (about 4x4 feet) at a time. Be careful not to soak it, as too much water can damage the drywall underneath.
2. Let the water soak for about 10-15 minutes to loosen the texture.

Step 4: Scrape the Popcorn

1. Use a wide putty knife or drywall taping knife to gently scrape the popcorn texture off. Hold the knife at a slight angle and carefully work across the section.
2. Be patient and work in small sections to avoid gouging the ceiling.

Step 5: Smooth and Sand (Optional)

1. Once the popcorn is removed, you might notice imperfections or small gouges in the ceiling.
2. Sand the ceiling with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth it out.
3. Patch any gouges with joint compound, let it dry, then sand again for a smooth finish.

Step 6: Prime and Paint

1. After the ceiling is smooth and clean, apply a coat of primer.
2. Once the primer is dry, paint the ceiling with the desired color.

Tips:

1. Work in small sections to ensure the water doesn't dry before you start scraping.
2. Use gentle pressure with the scraper to avoid damaging the drywall.
3. Ventilate the room well and wear protective gear, especially if the ceiling hasn't been tested for asbestos.