Removing a popcorn ceiling is one of the most noticeable upgrades in an older Ottawa home — and one of the messiest if it is not planned properly.
The texture comes off, then the real work starts: the ceiling underneath usually needs repairs and a skim coat before it looks flat under paint. Removal and refinishing should be quoted as one job.
The texture is dampened and scraped, which is the quick part. Underneath, joints and fasteners that were never finished to a smooth standard are revealed, so most ceilings need taping repairs and a skim coat after scraping.
A ceiling quoted for removal only, without refinishing, is not ready for paint. Make sure your scope covers both.
Some textured coatings applied before the 1980s can contain asbestos. If your home is older, have the texture tested before disturbing it. We do not disturb material that has not been cleared.
See also: Stipple ceiling repair
This is dusty, wet work. Rooms are emptied or fully covered, floors protected and doorways contained. Plan on the room being out of use until the ceiling is finished and dry.
Clear expectations. A considered plan.
A finish that brings the room together.
A close-up and a wider shot of each area, plus what caused it if you know — a leak, a door handle, settling or old plumbing work.
We confirm whether each spot can be patched or needs a section cut out, and note any moisture issue that must be fixed first.
Damaged board is cut back or backed, taped and filled in several thin coats, with drying time and sanding between each.
The repair is feathered into the surrounding wall or ceiling and checked under normal light so it is ready for primer and paint.
A closer look at each type of project. See all projects.
Tell us what needs doing and where. Prefer to talk? Call (613) 319-4768.
It can, but paint makes later removal harder and does not change the look much. Removal and a smooth finish is the lasting fix.
If the texture dates from before the 1980s, testing is strongly recommended before any disturbance. Have it tested first; we work on cleared material.
Scraping is fast; the repairs and skim coat afterward take several coats with drying time. Most rooms span several days.
It should be. Confirm in your written scope that the price covers removal, repairs, skim coating and sanding to a paint-ready surface.
Tell us what you have in mind. Let’s talk about your drywall project.
