I remember hearing that there is a problem using one type of paint over an existing layer of a different type of paint... Is it acrylic over oil or oil over acrylic that is the "no-no"? How can I tell what the existing paint is? I'm painting a bathroom that was originally painted over 30 years ago when the house was built and hasn't been touched since. I had planned on using an oil paint. Also curious is TSP the same as sugar soap? The ceiling needs to be cleaned of mildew before I paint it. And should I use Kilz as a primer?:confused:

I moved into my new house last week. The family room needs to be painted this coming weekend before our carpet gets installed in there. But we have come into some problems. Mainly the popcorn ceiling...at least I think it is popcorn ceiling. It is all sharp little bumps. And as if that weren't bad enough(I hate textured ceilings) the ceiling is filthy. Cobwebs and dust like you wouldn't believe. I have done some research and have come to two conclusions...remove it or paint it. We are renting the house so we are going with painting it. How do I proceed with this. I heard using a paint sprayer is the best course of action. The ceiling is very dry and brittle. First I was going to LIGHTLY vacuum the ceiling. Then prime it. How many coats and what type of primer...I need something that will block out the dirt and nicotine. How aboiut Zinnser's B-I-N? Then paint it. I am planning on using Pittsburgh Paints ceiling paint...white. Anything else I should know? How easy it is it to use an airless paint sprayer. I am borrowing one form my brother. Any info is greatly appreciated...I am so dreading this!! Annie