Best Ceiling Paint After Popcorn Removal
If you’ve just removed that aging popcorn texture, you’re probably asking: now what? This guide walks you through how to finish popcorn ceiling removal and choose the best ceiling paint after popcorn removal, ensuring your space looks naturally flawless.
Why Proper Prep Matters Before Painting
Before you can tackle painting ceiling after popcorn removal, you must focus on prep, your success depends on it.
Scraping & Sanding: The Foundation
Successfully scraping popcorn off ceiling leaves uneven drywall and potential gouges. Plan to sand the surface, aim for a smooth, uniform base. As one DIYer shared:
“We used a vacuum‑attached dustless sander … it was that worth it … there wasn’t any dust on the plastic or even on our clothes.”
It’s a small investment for cleaner, faster prep. Once sanded, wipe down the ceiling, and prime to seal the surface.
Choosing the Best Ceiling Paint after Popcorn Removal
After sanding, it’s time to prime and paint. Flat, stain-blocking paints are your best friend when you’re finishing a ceiling once textured.
Primers That Work Wonders
If the drywall is pristine, a quality PVA primer may suffice. But if damage, staining, or adhesive residue exists, reach for a shellac-based or oil-based primer for better adhesion and stain blocking.
Paint Choices That Hide Imperfections
Select ultra-flat, ceiling-specific paints—these mask slight flaws and look more uniform under light.
Product Recommendations & Honest Reviews
Here are some Amazon picks to consider, complete with pros and caveats:
Dustless Drywall Sander with Shop‑Vac Attachment
Why it’s great: Preps the ceiling with minimal dust—“completely unnecessary to cover floors.”
What to watch for: Requires compatible HEPA bags or your vacuum may clog quickly.
Popcorn Ceiling Scraper Tool ( POPeeze PRO)
Why it’s helpful: Attaches to a shop vacuum to collect debris and minimize mess.
Drawbacks: Not recommended for ceilings that have been painted over—might clog or damage.
Kilz 2 Primer & Sherwin‑Williams Master Hide Flat Paint
Kilz 2 Primer: Reliable and cost-effective—great for sealing softened drywall.
Master Hide Flat Paint: Ultra-flat finish ideal for hiding imperfections. Requires two coats after primer.
Step‑by‑Step: From Removal to Finish
- Scrape popcorn using a scraper attachment or paint remover gel.
- Sand thoroughly, start coarse, finish with fine grit; clean up dust with vacuum.
- Patch and skim-coat any gouges for a uniform surface.
- Prime, use oil/shellac base if needed, otherwise a high-quality PVA primer.
- Paint with two coats of ultra-flat ceiling paint (e.g., Master Hide).
- Final touches, remove tape, reinstall fixtures, enjoy your smooth ceiling.
Expert Tips & Insights
- Always test for asbestos before starting popcorn ceiling removal, it’s essential.
- Avoid retexturing after removal—multiple DIYers emphasize that “without some sort of texture it’ll look pretty bad.”
- If paper backing peels when painting, consider a skim coat or surface sealer like Gardz before priming.
Conclusion
Finishing your ceiling post-popcorn removal doesn’t have to be frustrating. With proper sanding, the right primer and ultra-flat paint, and tools that streamline the process—plus a sprinkle of patience, you can achieve a stunning, smooth ceiling. The transition from vintage popcorn to a sleek finish is transformative. Dive in, prep thoroughly, and enjoy the results.
