What’s the big deal about popcorn ceilings? Most comments I hear are:
- “They’re dated.”
- “They are hard to paint over.”
- “They are dust catchers.”
- “They are just plain ugly.”
Are popcorn ceilings a deal breaker to you? Don’t let popcorn ceilings be a deal breaker in your next home search. Instead of breaking the bank to try to remove popcorn ceilings, or crossing it off your list, here are a few ways to lessen their visual appearance.
#1. Change the lighting. Usually, people who hate their popcorn ceilings have lighting that shines upward toward the ceiling. These are light fixtures that are flush mounted to the ceiling and cast a lot of shadows. A better option is to change your fixtures to directional fixtures that point down instead of out.
#2. Choose bulbs that cast a softer light or use table lamps or sconces that give a more dramatic effect to the eye.
#3. Paint. We’ve all seen stains and dirt on ceilings and popcorn ceilings do not hide it well. The only way to lessen the effect of popcorn ceilings is a fresh coat of white paint. (Of course, you will want to address why the stain was there in the first place too). Some people ask if it is ok to paint a different color other than white. My answer is no, however, I’m sure after you get over the initial shock painting a different color, it will be just fine.
#4. Stop looking at them! More often than not, you do not remember the ceilings of the last few homes you were in. Most people only remember dirty or stained ceilings, so if you take the right steps, your ceilings are a non-issue. Make an effort to point attention to furnishings and other exciting things in your home than your ceilings.