How to Repair Crack in Popcorn Ceiling in 70's House

Question

I have some fairly minor cracks in the basement ceiling of my 1970's home. The ceiling type is popcorn. I have read that it's normal for older homes to settle over time, creating some cracks. How should I go about sealing up the cracks? I know there are popcorn ceiling patch and repair products but is there anything else I should use (i.e. mesh tape, etc.)? Any suggestions are appreciated!

Kevin G. · Answer

@Dennis Sparks

If it's 70s popcorn and you're going to scrape, would recommend checking for asbestos first.

Good luck

Account Closed · Answer

Thanks, Bonnie!

James Salvant · Answer

Are the cracks just in the texture or the cracks in the drywall that is causing the popcorn texture to crack?  If the cracks are just the popcorn texture, then it may not be adhering to the drywall.  This is a result of the drywall not being primed prior to blowing the popcorn when originally installed.  If you try to repair the crack in the texture, and attempt to paint your ceiling, you will wind up pulling down the texture with your paint roller.  If it is a crack in the drywall also, as previously posted, use a mesh tape.  It resists cracking better than paper tape.  Good point above about asbestos.  Good luck.

Jeremy Isaac · Answer

Yep. Kevin beat me to it. Break off a small piece while wearing gloves and a mask and place it in a Ziplock bag. Take it to an asbestos testing lab. My lab charges me $30 and I get results in 24 hours. If it is positive for asbestos, don't scrape the ceilings - repair instead. I'd place a strip of mesh tape over each crack, a thin layer of mud, and then finish off with popcorn texture.

How to Repair Crack in Popcorn Ceiling in 70's House

Most Popular Reply