Can You Cover Popcorn Ceiling With Sheetrock

Can You Cover Popcorn Ceiling With Sheetrock?

Popcorn ceilings, a vestige of the 1970s and 1980s, are a common sight in older homes. While they were once considered a stylish way to add texture to a ceiling, they have since fallen out of favor. Many homeowners now find them outdated, unsightly, and difficult to clean. If you're one of those homeowners, you may be wondering if it's possible to cover a popcorn ceiling with sheetrock.

The answer is yes, it is possible to cover a popcorn ceiling with sheetrock. However, it's not a simple task. It requires careful preparation and execution to ensure a professional-looking finish. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps on how to cover a popcorn ceiling with sheetrock.

Steps to Cover Popcorn Ceiling With Sheetrock:

1. Safety First:

Before you begin any work, be sure to take the necessary safety precautions. This includes wearing a dust mask, safety glasses, and gloves. Popcorn ceilings contain asbestos, so it's important to minimize your exposure to the dust.

2. Prepare the Ceiling:

The first step is to prepare the ceiling for the sheetrock. This involves removing any light fixtures, ceiling fans, or other obstacles. You'll also need to remove the popcorn texture from the ceiling. This can be done by scraping it off with a putty knife or by using a chemical popcorn ceiling remover.

3. Install Furring Strips:

Once the ceiling is prepared, you need to install furring strips. Furring strips are thin strips of wood that are attached to the ceiling joists. They provide a level surface for the sheetrock to be attached to.

4. Hang the Sheetrock:

Once the furring strips are installed, you can begin hanging the sheetrock. Sheetrock is typically hung in 4'x8' sheets. Start by attaching the sheetrock to the furring strips with drywall screws. Be sure to countersink the screws so that they are flush with the surface of the sheetrock.

5. Finish the Joints:

Once the sheetrock is hung, you need to finish the joints between the sheets. This involves applying joint compound to the seams and then taping them with drywall tape. Once the tape is dry, you can apply a second coat of joint compound and sand it smooth.

6. Prime and Paint:

Once the joints are finished, you can prime and paint the sheetrock. Be sure to use a primer that is specifically designed for use on drywall. Once the primer is dry, you can apply two coats of paint in the color of your choice.

Conclusion:

Covering a popcorn ceiling with sheetrock is not a difficult task, but it does require some time and effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will transform the look of your home.