Why Are Popcorn Ceilings on Their Way Out?

The way we view popcorn ceilings has shifted dramatically over the last century – what was once seen as a trendy, tasteful design choice in homes is now an unwanted eyesore! But what has caused the humble popcorn ceiling to fall so far out of favor? Beyond its outdated appearance, the frequent presence of hazardous materials can also be blamed! Here’s what you need to know.

Why Are Popcorn Ceilings Problematic?

If you’re renovating an older property, there’s a good chance that at least some of the ceilings will have textured finishes. Popcorn ceilings were a popular decorative feature in the mid-20^th century, due mostly to their aesthetic appeal and ease of application. They’re sometimes called stucco or acoustic ceilings due to their unmistakable appearance. However, the main appeal was financial: developers could get ceilings finished in a much cheaper manner!

It wasn’t until after these ceilings surged in popularity that it was discovered that they often contain ACMs, which stand for asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos is known for being harmful to human health when ingested, and in the Clean Air Act of 1978, it was banned for use in ceiling treatment. Note that not all textured ceilings contain asbestos, but until the ceiling in question has been tested, it’s wise to treat all such coatings with caution.

Beyond that, many homeowners have become tired, bored, or even appalled by the appearance of these ceilings; it’s simply an older style that’s been replaced by several other modern and exciting schemes!

What Are Some Good Alternatives to Popcorn Ceilings?

Ceilings allow you to expand your creativity beyond what your four walls normally allow, and there is a multitude of ways to elevate your ceiling with materials, colors, textures, or even wallpaper – none of which include an outdated popcorn ceiling. Some ideas worth considering include:

• Conventional Ceilings – These are commonly found in homes; they have standard drywall finishes and are often plain and flat, meaning you have a lot of options when it comes to complementary décor and other design choices.
• Coffered Ceilings – Often found in high-end homes, churches, and libraries, these ceilings can add the illusion of height to a room, making the space feel much bigger.
• Tray Ceilings – These multi-level ceilings start from one height and then drop as you add levels. As the name implies, the layout resembles a tray that’s flat on the outside with a raised center.
• Beam Ceilings – Typically found in hallways and corridors, this style might seem contemporary but it’s actually a very traditional ceiling form, often used for its simple aesthetic appeal.

No matter what type of ceiling you opt for, it’s also crucial to consider the color scheme – the right coat of paint can greatly elevate all kinds of ceiling designs. If you’re unsure about what direction to go, don’t hesitate to consult with a team of professionals; they’ll be able to safely remove your popcorn ceiling and ensure that once you’ve settled on a new design, its colors look spectacular!

About Platinum Painting

Our team here at Platinum Painting has proudly served homeowners across the DFW metroplex for over 15 years, offering professional assistance with a wide variety of interior and exterior painting projects, including popcorn removal from start to finish. If you have questions about the blog or you’d like to set up a FREE estimate, please visit us online or contact us by phone for further information or assistance.  

Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 697-2726.

Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (817) 993-4095.