Best Ways To Cover Popcorn Ceilings (Popcorn Ceiling Alternatives)

Popcorn ceilings became popular in the 1950s and continued their reign as the ceiling finish of choice until the 1990s. As an inexpensive way to conceal imperfections, dampen noise and offer some fire resistance, they quickly popped up in all kinds of homes.

Unfortunately, the bumpy texture of popcorn ceilings can collect dust, and their aesthetic appeal has waned over time. In fact, one of the first things that new home owners tackle when they move in with a popcorn ceiling is to remove it in favor of a smooth finish.

Removing and refinishing a popcorn ceiling can be a tricky process, one made trickier because of the possibility of asbestos in homes built prior to 1977 when asbestos was banned. Fortunately, ceiling design has come a long way since then, and today’s ceiling materials offer stylish and functional ceiling alternatives.

Instead of taking on an extensive ceiling remodel that involves lots of mess, installing a drop ceiling below the existing ceiling or using some of our surface mount alternatives as ceiling alternatives gives you the benefits of acoustic comfort and fire resistance without the outdated aesthetics of a popcorn ceiling.

Why do people want to cover or remove popcorn ceilings?

Homeowners often cover or remove popcorn ceilings because:

• They look outdated
  

• The texture traps dust and cobwebs
  

• They're hard to clean or paint
  

• Some may contain asbestos (in homes built before 1980)
  
  

Is it better to remove or cover a popcorn ceiling?

Covering is often preferred if:

• You want to avoid the mess and cost of removal
  

• There’s potential asbestos present Removal is ideal when:
  

• You want a completely smooth ceiling
  

• You’re remodeling extensively
  

Both methods can be effective, depending on your goals and budget.

What are the best ways to cover a popcorn ceiling?

Top popcorn ceiling covering options include:

• Ceiling planks or wood panels: Adds warmth and texture
  

• Decorative panels: Lightweight and easy to install
  

• Drop ceiling tiles: Great for basements or utility rooms
  

• Metal ceiling tiles: Stylish and durable for a vintage or industrial look

Top stylish alternatives to popcorn ceilings

These stylish alternatives to popcorn ceilings will give you the inspiration to get started!

1. Wood planks create a natural look

WOODHAVEN Planks provide incredible installation flexibility with three easy ways to install them on a ceiling. They can be screwed directly to joists, plaster or drywall, or they can be clipped onto an existing drop ceiling grid. You can also install them on their own track system to cover old popcorn ceilings without scraping or sanding.

2. Old world charm without the weight

Popcorn ceilings emerged as an alternative to traditional hand-troweled plaster ceilings, and as a result, some old-world hand-crafted charm was lost. TINCRAFT ceiling tiles can recreate that old-world charm without the weight and labor-intensive installation of plaster ceilings. Available in two patterns and four colors, you’ll find the perfect fit for your space.

3. Noise reduction in an open space

The noise level in a large, open space can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why INVISACOUSTICS ceiling panels are a great popcorn ceiling alternative. They are the easiest way to reduce noise in an open area as they work well for exposed structures. They even have an unfinished option that you can paint to match the surroundings.

4. A simple room refresh

For a simple room refresh, LYRA Vector tiles give the look of a fully concealed suspension system that creates a monolithic look with accessibility. These tiles are our smoothest visual ceiling and have excellent sound absorption and blocking needed for any space.

Find stylish alternatives to popcorn ceilings

It’s easy to find a stylish alternative to popcorn ceilings with Kanopi by Armstrong. We have a wide selection of ceiling styles, so you’re sure to find the perfect combination of acoustic performance, sustainability, durability and fire resistance.

Contact an expert at Kanopi today to design a beautiful and functional popcorn ceiling alternative.

FAQ's

What’s the easiest DIY way to cover a popcorn ceiling?

The easiest DIY-friendly method is using adhesive ceiling tiles or planks. These products are lightweight, don’t require furring strips, and can be installed with construction adhesive or brad nails.

Can you paint over a popcorn ceiling instead of covering it?

Yes, painting is a quick refresh option, but it won’t remove the texture. Use a thick nap roller or sprayer. Ensure the ceiling is sealed and not flaking before painting. Never paint over popcorn ceilings that may contain asbestos.

How do I know if my popcorn ceiling contains asbestos?

If your home was built before 1980, there's a chance the popcorn ceiling may contain asbestos. Send a sample to a certified lab for testing before disturbing or removing it. If asbestos is present, consult an abatement professional.

Can you install Armstrong ceiling products over popcorn ceilings?

Yes. Armstrong offers ceiling plank and tile systems (like Easy Up®) that can be installed directly over popcorn ceilings using clips or adhesive. These are designed for quick DIY installation.

Do I need to prep the ceiling before covering it?

Yes. Remove any loose texture or debris, patch cracks, and ensure the ceiling is dry and stable. In some cases, sealing the surface with a primer is also recommended before applying adhesive or coverings.

How can I cover my popcorn ceiling without removing it?

Cover any popcorn ceiling with surface mount ceiling tiles and planks. Choose from a variety of options to suit your style and budget. We have you (and your ceiling) covered.

Does removing the popcorn ceiling add value?

Yes. Removing popcorn ceilings will always increase a home's value. This type of ceiling is out of style and considered less desirable.

How do you install ceiling tiles ?

For most DIY-ers installing a drop ceiling is something that can be done quickly. Some of our products require better technical skills, more time planning and measuring, and more tools, like metal shears. Be sure to read our how-to install drop ceiling guide.