How to Apply Stucco to a Ceiling

A stucco ceiling is a common use of stucco on the interior of a home. While most commonly known for being used an exterior siding, stucco can also come inside and be used for a very durable and versatile ceiling and wall covering. There are many different ways to use stucco on the ceiling. Two of the most popular is in the form of a sprayed on "popcorn" ceiling, and a troweled on surface that can be used in a recessed ceiling for more elegance.

How to Apply Stucco to a Ceiling
Stucco is a cement based product that is very versatile and durable. It can be easily worked with to create details in the surfaces it is being applied to and has been used to create incredibly beautiful detail to many of the world's most renowned buildings.

Applying stucco to a ceiling is a very basic procedure that someone with a moderate experience with tools and home improvement could do quite easily.

Step One
Remove all the furniture. If that is not possible, then move to center and cover with dropcloths. Clean the entire surface of the ceiling with a damp sponge removing all dust, dirt, oils, and any thing else that might be there. Arrange dropcloths on the floor so as not to damage any rugs, tiles, or hardwood.

Step Two
Using the 5 gallon pail, pour 4 gallons of water in it while mixing in stucco mix. Mix the mixture with the drill and mixing paddle. Do not run on a high speed and continue adding mixture until it is a thin consistency and without any lumps.

Step Three
After you get the stucco mixture to the right consistency, begin adding it to the hopper on the spray gun. Test the settings of the nozzle first before applying it to the ceiling. There are different settings so you want to find the one you want. Start in one corner of the room and begin spraying the stucco ceiling. Continue moving in a slow, but deliberate manner. Avoid staying too long in any one spot. This will cause the stucco to clump in one space. Keep walking and keep the spray moving. Watch the spray where it is being applied. Do not watch the nozzle as you can not tell what it is doing on the surface you are spraying.

Step Four
Once you are finished spraying the room then clean up and clumps and droppings. Clean out the spray gun and finish the room. Once you know the answers to those questions then you can choose the right stucco ceiling for your design.