Popcorn ceiling
Popcorn ceilings in homes built after 1977 were made after the U.S. ban on asbestos in ceiling material, so while the ceilings might flake or peel, cleaning or painting them should not present a health risk. Only the lightest of touches, such as with a feather duster, works to remove cobwebs and dust without disturbing the texture. Any discoloration under these surface build-ups is only diminished effectively by painting the ceiling. With the right tools and preparation, a popcorn ceiling is sealed and painted without knocking off any of the texture.
Instructions
1. Remove all furniture from the room or move it all to the center of the room.
2. Mask off any wood ceiling trim or molding with plastic tarp and painter's tape to keep the spray paint off of these areas. Apply one edge of the painter's tape along the edge of the trim or molding that connects to the ceiling, then stick the edge of a thin plastic tarp to the free edge of the tape so the tarp drapes down and protects the trim and upper walls. Lay tarps on the floor from wall to wall to protect the floor; any furniture left in the room should be covered.
3. Load the paint sprayer with ceiling paint according to manufacturer's instructions. Spray a little on a piece of scrap newspaper to test the sprayer. Adjust the spray nozzle to allow the best control over the stream of paint.
4. Position the ladder at the chosen starting place.
5. Put on the painting respirator and other protective gear.
6. Climb to a safe height on the ladder and spray the paint onto the ceiling in short, back and forth motions until the desired coverage is achieved. Allow the paint to dry completely.
7. Apply a second coat of paint after the first is dry, if desired, to ensure even coverage.
Tags: painter tape, plastic tarp, spray paint, trim molding