Ceiling

I removed the popcorn texture from my ceiling and I have been sanding to get as smooth as possible. I understand after dusting I need to skim coat it that with joint compound? My ceiling is pretty smooth now so when you say the joints, what exactly is that? Is it where the ceiling meets the walls? After skim coating is the next step to sand, dust, primer and paint? This is pretty labor intense but I get satisfaction out of doing it myself so any help given will be appreciated. I have new carpet going to be put in so I need to finish job before then.

 

Welcome to the forums Deb!

The main reason for using popcorn texture is to hide a less than perfect finishing job = less cost for the builder.

Drywall comes in 4'x 8' and 4'x 12' sheets. After they are nailed/screwed to the wall/ceiling, all the joints [where 2 pieces of drywall meet] are taped and mudded to make the joints visually disappear.

A skim coat isn't a requirement for a slick finish but it usually results in a better looking job. Also 90% of the time when the popcorn is removed there are lots of little dings, cuts, etc. to repair - skim coating will usually take care of them.

Once you think you have the ceiling good and slick, dust and prime. If any defects appear - fix them and prime the repairs. Paint rarely hides any defects - usually they are more apparent after the painting's done