The Attractive Texture That's Replacing Outdated Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings began gaining popularity in the 1950s among homeowners and contractors alike. Contractors appreciated the easy spray-on method and the texture that hid imperfections, while homeowners liked the unique look and sound-dampening benefits. Today, the sentiments are not quite the same. There are hidden downsides to popcorn ceilings, and many homeowners have had theirs removed due to asbestos concerns in ceilings installed before 1980, while others find them dated or difficult to clean. Fortunately, if you like the look of a textured ceiling, there's another style that offers a modern alternative: knockdown texture.

A knockdown ceiling texture (sometimes called a splatter texture) has an almost stucco-like appearance. It creates soft peaks and ridges, but is much less dramatic than a popcorn ceiling, leaving the ceiling mostly flat with subtle texture. Like a popcorn ceiling, knockdown texture is great at hiding imperfections, is relatively easy to apply, and is one of the best ceiling textures to reduce noise in your home. However, it also has some added benefits: it's easier to clean, can be painted, and lends a more modern look.

Contractors typically apply knockdown texture using thinned-out joint compound and a texture sprayer or a hopper and an air compressor. The joint compound is sprayed onto the ceiling and allowed to set for 15 to 30 minutes, or until the edges of the texture splatter begin to dry. Then a contractor will come back with a wide-edged drywall knife to knock down the texture, flattening out major bumps and ridges.

While this can be a DIY project, you'll need to remove your popcorn ceiling first, which can be a big undertaking. And not safe if you think your ceilings may contain asbestos. If the DIY removal route isn't up your alley, but you want to remove your popcorn ceilings, what it will cost you depends upon several factors, including the room size and local labor markets. However, if you're sick of looking at or trying to clean dust from your bumpy popcorn ceilings, switching to a knockdown texture might be worth it in the long run. As an added bonus, doing so could even boost your home's resale value.