Repairing Guides

how to repair crack in popcorn ceiling

by Maegan Prohaska Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year 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. This includes things such as air vents, chandeliers, and ...
  • 2. Apply caulk.
  • 3. Allow the caulk to dry.
  • 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?

Prep Work

  • Painted popcorn ceiling removal is challenging. ...
  • Spray water in the area and scrape. ...
  • Use a paint stripper to remove painted texture or call a professional.
  • Cover outlets and fixtures with plastic sheeting and tape.
  • Cover the floors and bottom third of the walls with plastic.
  • Turn off power to the room.

How to spot repair a popcorn ceiling?

Popcorn Ceiling Repair

  • Remove Dust and Cobwebs
  • Lay a drop cloth on the floor and sweep the ceiling to remove dust and cobwebs.
  • Spray Hot Water Over the Damaged Area
  • Fill a spray bottle with hot water. ...
  • Remove the Damaged Texture
  • Remove the softened texture from the ceiling, using a putty knife. ...
  • Fix the Damage Using Drywall Joint Compound

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What is the cheapest way to cover a popcorn ceiling?

To effectively hide your textured ceiling with wood planks, follow the procedure detailed below:

  • Locate the rafters – using a stud finder, situate the ceiling joists and mark them out using tape or a marker pen. ...
  • Cut out light fixture holes – using a jigsaw, create holes for the lighting fixtures and vents on the wood planks.
  • Install the wood planks- install the wood planks by nailing them down to the popcorn ceiling. ...

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Does removing your popcorn ceilings increase home value?

You can increase the value of your home if you remove popcorn ceilings because buyers generally avoid them. Some popcorn ceilings contain asbestos and you will likely be required to remove them before you sell if yours does. You may add up to $25,000 in value to your home if you remove and replace popcorn ceilings.

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Why is my popcorn ceiling cracking?

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 popcorn ceiling without scraping?

How to Cover Ugly Popcorn Ceilings Without Scraping It OffAsbestos in popcorn ceiling material.Cover popcorn ceiling with drywall.Add wood panels or beadboard.Use a drop ceiling.Install metal ceiling tiles.Refresh the ceiling.

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 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.

When did they stop using asbestos in popcorn ceilings?

In 1977, the U.S. Government banned the use of asbestos in ceiling finishes, and most ceilings installed after this date will not contain asbestos. It is still possible, however, that materials manufactured before 1977 were installed in homes after the ban.

Is removing popcorn ceiling worth it?

In short, removing a popcorn ceiling can increase your home value. However, particular circumstances can affect its impact. Removing popcorn ceilings from a smaller home may not be a good use of renovation money. As long as it's in good condition, a fresh coat of paint may be the better option due to cost.

Can you skim coat over a popcorn ceiling?

1:3211:26When To Skim Coat Over A Popcorn Ceiling? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOver don't even try to skim coat over it because it's just gonna bubble and blister.MoreOver don't even try to skim coat over it because it's just gonna bubble and blister.

Does removing popcorn ceiling increase home value?

Removing popcorn ceilings will almost always increase a home's value. Not only is the design trend no longer desirable, but it also poses safety concerns for home buyers. To understand further, it helps to learn more about why popcorn ceilings were once a popular design choice—as well as why they no longer are.

How do you get rid of hairline cracks in ceiling?

If the crack is a very thin hairline—and it's been there for a while—odds are you can simply put a little spackling on a finger and smear it carefully into the crack, taking care to wipe away residue from the surface. More often, however, the crack will be larger, or the ceiling will have multiple cracks.

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 I fix a crack in my Artex ceiling?

0:403:49How to repair a damaged Artex textured wall or ceiling - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMake sure the surface is dry and free from flaking material oil and grease when working with glossMoreMake sure the surface is dry and free from flaking material oil and grease when working with gloss surfaces. Give them a light sand first sponge. Off all the dust.

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.

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 to do if popcorn ceiling is leaking?

For instance, if the problem is a leaky roof, you need to fix it before repairing your popcorn ceiling.

Can popcorn ceilings be repaired?

Unfortunately, when popcorn ceiling becomes damaged, it can be difficult to repair.

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.

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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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