Repairing Guides

how to repair a crack in a popcorn ceiling

by Miss Mara Bergnaum PhD Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How to Repair a Crack in Popcorn Ceiling

  1. Remove the ceiling fixtures. First, you need to remove ceiling fixtures near the crack. ...
  2. Apply caulk. Put the tip of the caulking gun at the start of the crack and draw the gun down the crack. ...
  3. Allow the caulk to dry. Once the caulk is applied to the cracks and smoothened, allow it to dry completely. ...
  4. Spray popcorn treatment. ...
  5. Apply a primer. ...

Part of a video titled How To Fix A Cracked Popcorn Ceiling-Tutorial - YouTube
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And what you want to do is you want to just apply a little bit of the caulking. And squeeze it outMoreAnd what you want to do is you want to just apply a little bit of the caulking. And squeeze it out just a little bit on the crack. Now you really want to just like as little as possible.

Full Answer

How do you patch a popcorn ceiling?

Tips for Different Ceiling Repair Jobs

  • Cut a rectangle around the damaged area.
  • Add wooden cleats behind each side for support.
  • Attach a patch piece to the cleats.
  • Place mesh tape over the patch piece and spread joint compound.
  • Apply a second and third coat of the compound over repairs and then sand until smooth.
  • Clean with a damp rag to remove dust; prime and paint the ceiling to match.

How to spot repair a popcorn ceiling?

Tip: For small stained areas without physical damages, try this:

  • Allow the area to completely dry
  • Use a spray bottle to apply chlorine bleach to the stained area
  • Let the area completely dry again (repeat if the stain lightens)
  • Advance the drying process by allowing any excess liquid (bleach solution) to soak into the affected area and direct a fan toward the treated area

How to repair a water damaged popcorn ceiling?

How to Repair Popcorn Ceiling Water Damage

  • Identify the source of the damage and be sure it is completely resolved before attempting to fix the ceiling. ...
  • Next, identify the damaged area. ...
  • You want to go about one inch around the damaged area and remove all the pain and texture. ...
  • Wipe the area with a damp cloth and apply a high-quality primer. ...

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Does removing your popcorn ceilings increase home value?

While this may not seem worth it mathematically, just having popcorn ceilings can decrease the value of the home by simply making it less appealing. By removing popcorn ceilings, you are increasing your home value and ridding your home of the “outdated” look.

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Why is there a crack in my popcorn ceiling?

Insufficient surface prep is usually the reason for the cracking. Over-thickening the paint or applying it too thinly can lead to cracks. Making your paint too thick causes tiny cracks that run in all over the popcorn ceiling because the paint shrinks as it dries – especially if you try to cure it faster.

How do you fix a hairline crack in a textured ceiling?

How to Fix a Hairline Crack in a Textured Sheetrock CeilingLook for Water Damage. ... Use a Drywall Knife. ... Apply Drywall Primer. ... Place Drywall Tape Over the Crack. ... Coat the Tape With Drywall Joint Compound. ... Apply a Second Coat of the Joint Compound. ... Apply the Texture. ... Finish With a Few Touch Ups.

What is the easiest way to repair a popcorn ceiling?

0:472:40How To Repair Popcorn Ceiling Texture - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUsing a sweeping back-and-forth motion feathering the texture into the surrounding. Area shake theMoreUsing a sweeping back-and-forth motion feathering the texture into the surrounding. Area shake the can periodically during use for large repair.

How do you fix a crack in a pop ceiling?

4:0813:01How to fix a crack in a wall or ceiling - DIY - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd we're just going to fill in this little crack right here and we're also going to provide aMoreAnd we're just going to fill in this little crack right here and we're also going to provide a little bit of bedding underneath. So that we can put our mesh tape into.

What is the best filler for ceiling cracks?

Toupret Fibacryl is a specialist flexible filler, which is suitable for filling and repairing movement cracks, problem cracks, and moving cracks on internal and external projects.

When should I be concerned about a crack in my ceiling?

Ceiling cracks along with sagging indicate a possible structural problem that needs immediate attention. One, big, continuous ceiling crack that goes across the ceiling and down a wall is almost certainly a structural issue. Contact a foundation professional right away for an inspection.

What is the cheapest way to cover a popcorn ceiling?

Some of the cheapest options include covering it up with tongue-and-groove wood panels, drywall panels, prepared fiberboard ceiling planks/tiles, fabric, and paint patterns.

How can I cover my popcorn ceiling without removing it?

1:4213:34How To Cover Popcorn Ceiling Without Removing It - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI hold the taping knife into the corner at an angle. And then i drag it across the popcorn to evenlyMoreI hold the taping knife into the corner at an angle. And then i drag it across the popcorn to evenly distribute the joint. Compound.

How do you make popcorn ceilings look good?

When looking for a way to dress up a ceiling with texture while also hiding that popcorn texture, consider adding wood or wood paneling. Covering the ceiling with tongue and groove wood planks, bead board, or another rustic wood plank or panel is a creative way to add interest to the ceiling and update the space.

Can you put filler on ceiling?

But removing a light fitting can leave an ugly hole in your smooth ceiling. The answer? U-Can Smooth Ceiling Patch and Filler. The the simple, mess free way to repair and restore ceiling plaster.

How do you fix thin cracks in ceilings?

2:134:41How to Repair Hairline Cracks - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAlright so I'll be getting some filler on some of the knife. But put it across like that. And go upMoreAlright so I'll be getting some filler on some of the knife. But put it across like that. And go up to the hole the crap. Rather. Put it back like that pressing this pillar into the crack. All the way

How do you caulk a cracked ceiling?

0:132:37Caulking a ceiling "crack" - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGot just a little pressure on my finger to get it out not much. And as I'm going back and forthMoreGot just a little pressure on my finger to get it out not much. And as I'm going back and forth that's also pushing it up into the crack. Okay and this has some spray texture on the ceiling.

How do you repair drywall seams on a textured ceiling?

Here's how:Cut away the loose portion of the tape.Sand the area to remove joint compound and texture in the surrounding area.Apply new drywall tape and cover it with a coat of joint compound.Apply additional coats of joint compound as needed to achieve a seamless repair.More items...

How do I fix a crack in my ceiling before painting?

How to Patch Cracks in a Ceiling Before PaintingScrape Away Loose Paint. ... Sand Over Cracks. ... Vacuum Up Dust. ... Apply a Layer of Patching Compound. ... Add a Second Layer of Compound. ... Sand and Vacuum Again. ... Scrape Away Loose Paint. ... Sand the Ceiling.More items...

What Causes Cracks In Popcorn Ceiling?

A fine straight crack on the popcorn ceiling could be due to a poorly taped joint. Usually, when painting a popcorn ceiling, masking tape is applied to the joints to protect the walls. If you use a small amount of drywall mud during taping, the tape won’t embed perfectly on the joints.

Is Cracked Popcorn Ceiling Dangerous?

It depends on whether the cracks are cosmetic or were caused by a serious structural problem. As we just pointed out above, cracks on the popcorn ceiling are caused by a number of problems.

How to Repair a Crack in Popcorn Ceiling

The steps involved during repair vary depending on the extent of the crack. In this section, we have highlighted the steps of repairing a small hairline crack and cracks larger than 1/8 inch.

Crack Size and Safety

These cracks are usually very thin or fine, approximately smaller than 1.59 mm (1/16- inch). You don’t have to worry about hairline cracks because they are purely cosmetic in nature.

Can you touch up a popcorn ceiling?

Yes. A popcorn ceiling texture repair although a little time-consuming is doable. Keep in mind that a cracked popcorn ceiling can take away from the look of your living area, and is best repaired as soon as possible. You can fix a cracked popcorn ceiling with a few simple tools and supplies.

Required tools for a DIY popcorn ceiling repair

Keeping all the necessary tools handy before you begin the home improvement project will help you save time and reduce your frustration. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Required materials for popcorn ceiling repair

It’s always a good idea to have all your materials ready ahead of time. It’ll help you avoid last-minute trips to the local hardware store. Here’s everything you’ll need:

DIY popcorn ceiling repair process

Identify and fix the underlying cause of the damage or else the problem may reoccur. For example, if the issue is a leaky roof or structural damage, you’ll have to fix it before repairing your popcorn ceiling.

Is it worth it to replace a popcorn ceiling?

If you’re bothered enough by your popcorn ceiling, it’s better to have it removed. And often, removing a popcorn ceiling may even increase your home value. However, keep in mind that removing the ceiling will cause a lot of dirt and dust around your home so it’s better to let licensed professionals deal with it.

Last thoughts

A cracking or water-damaged popcorn ceiling is difficult to repair and hard to clean. Moreover, it can easily catch dust. It’s best to repair it at the earliest.

What Causes a Popcorn Ceiling To Fall Off?

When a popcorn ceiling starts to fall off, the problem is most likely moisture.

What Causes a Popcorn Ceiling To Crack?

When you see a crack in your ceiling, it can be very concerning. Although it can seem like an indication of serious structural damage, cracks are usually caused by either natural settling or moisture.

What Causes a Popcorn Ceiling To Bubble?

If a bubble starts forming in your ceiling, it’s caused by a buildup of moisture.

How To Repair Your Ceiling

There are a few ways to repair your popcorn ceiling without professional help. However, it is important to note that popcorn ceilings that have been installed before 1979 may contain asbestos. If you have an older home, make sure to have your ceiling checked for asbestos before you make any DIY repairs.

Final Thoughts

When problems with your popcorn ceiling occur, it can be a frustrating experience. You may notice that your ceiling starts to crack, peel, bubble, or fall off over time. This usually happens because of water damage, but there are a few simple ways to perform repairs yourself.

Featured In

Greg is a self taught home renovator and writer for RenoViso. His shares his experiences with Southern Living, Traditional Home and other publications.

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