Skip The Scraping: An Easier Way To Cover Popcorn Ceilings For A Sleek, Modern Look

Even if you despise the look of them, removing popcorn ceilings can be a big undertaking that not everyone is up for. Between testing the ceiling for asbestos, moving or covering all of your furniture, and spending hours scraping and patching, it often feels easier to just deal with the outdated aesthetic. But what if you could have the best of both worlds and find a way to cover dated popcorn ceilings without the hassle of scraping? Well, now you can. By attaching a stretched piece of fabric to your ceiling you can conceal the popcorn look and give your room a sleek, modern upgrade.

This method of covering your ceiling is a fun way to switch things up without enduring the hassle of removing that pesky popcorn texture. Stretched fabric ceilings also offer unique customization opportunities including backlighting, which can help turn any room into a cozy sanctuary. As far as budget-friendly ways to make dated popcorn ceilings a thing of the past go, the stretched fabric method offers a beautiful pay off. This process will likely require professional installation, so keep that in mind when building out your budget. However, it is possible to DIY as well.

Stretched fabric ceilings are basically a second ceiling that you install overtop of the original, similar to a suspended ceiling. The ceilings are considered an easy and cost effective way to elevate the look of your room. Additionally, they offer sound proofing qualities and are easy to clean. There are two main components for this style of ceiling — a perimeter track and the fabric itself, which is commonly made from a thin PVC material. Essentially, once the perimeter track is installed, you attach the fabric to the perimeter in sections, carefully pulling it taut along the way.

With this method, you can keep things simple and crisp with white fabric. But, if you're looking for stunning statement ceilings to give your space a whole new look, consider using backlighting and colored or patterned fabric to create a unique mural effect. Starry night skies, images of nature, or funky patterns are all options. Of course, there are some cons to consider. For example, you should avoid installing stretch fabric ceilings in drafty rooms or on especially large ceilings, as the fabric is more likely to sag. Additionally, you'll be restricted to light bulbs that don't exceed 40 watts, as anything stronger could lead to overheating and may discolor the fabric.