We're refinishing our kitchen ceiling by removing the "popcorn" texture. We need to sand before we prime and paint, but have been told that we can't use an electric sander. Is that so? Any advice about sanding a ceiling?

Thanks!

 

In order to use a sander, there would have to be a means by which to remove the dust to keep it from destroying the motor.

Removing popcorn is usually done by misting with water and scraping most of it off with a wide taping knife. After the bulk of it is gone, let it dry then sand. A pole sanding tool might be your best bet, otherwise.

Hope this helps.

 

now you cant be serious that you scrape off that crap and have a good surface to paint?
it must be rough
i would sand with sand screen about 100 grit and apply a skim coat of cgc lightweight and then pole sand smooth with 120 regular paper(not screen) prime then paint
this is the only way to acheive a perfect finish after scrape.

gl
ryan

 

There is often more than one way to do it.

 

We do this all the time, last one was a 3 bdrm, 2 bath, about 2000 sq ft. of popcorn ceilings. This is how we do it.
Day 1-Mist all lids with water bottles, mask off fixtures, windows & woodwork. Then scrape (we use 36" aluminum knockdown paddle & 10" or 12" mud knives.) & repair any bad spots as needed. Let dry overnight.
Day 2- Pole sand any remaining rough spots with screen. Apply new skim coat & let dry overnight.
Day3 Sand with 100 grit paper & pole sander. Shoot new spray & knockdown. Ready for prime & paint.

 

Thank you for your helpful responses!

 

Glad we could help. Good luck & let us know how it turns out.