No asbestos? Fresh paint can help ...
If there is no asbestos present, there are other ways to deal with popcorn ceilings that fall short of removal. One option is to freshen them up with a new coat of paint.
Think twice about using a roller because acoustic ceilings are very porous and will absorb a great deal of paint. Also, using a regular roller makes it nearly impossible to achieve even coverage.
The most efficient way to put new paint on a textured ceiling is to spray-paint it with flat latex. Spraying is a difficult job, and unless you already have most of the supplies, it may be cheaper to hire a professional. After all this is done, however, you're still left with that same outmoded look.
Taking it down yourself
You can do it! But it's hard work, and not particularly pleasant. It's a dirty, nasty, long job.
Here are the basic steps:
- Clear the room of all contents, including any hanging fixtures. Place wire nuts on any exposed wires and turn off these fixtures at the breaker to avoid electrical shock.
- Guard walls and floors with a lightweight plastic drop cloth, covered with a layer of six-millimeter plastic sheeting.
- Soften the acoustic material with a light water spray; a pump garden sprayer works well.
Scrape the popcorn off with a wide-blade taping knife. - Let the drywall dry overnight. The next day, repair any imperfections with drywall joint compound, then sand with a sanding pole using 100-grit sandpaper.
- Apply texture to match the wall finish.
The final steps are to seal the ceiling with drywall primer and paint.
Use a good primer. Finish with a flat latex paint, because sheen will accentuate any imperfections in the ceiling.
Then throw a party and enjoy the fruits of your hard labor with friends and family. :)
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