We’ve begun addressing one of the few things in our home that’s always bothered me: the textured ceilings. They aren’t the heavy, chunky “popcorn” ceilings of decades past, but they’re far from smooth — just enough texture to catch your eye every time you look up.
After years of living with anything that irritates you, you eventually find the courage to change it. That’s where this project starts: instead of stripping the texture away, we’re considering ceiling treatments that conceal it and add character.
What You Should Know Before Tampering With Popcorn Ceilings
Removing textured ceilings can be tricky, especially in older homes. If your house was built in the 1970s or earlier, there’s a chance the ceiling compound contains asbestos or older lead-based paint. Before starting any work, test for asbestos and lead so you can take the right safety precautions.
If tests confirm asbestos or lead, hire a licensed professional to manage removal or encapsulation. A pro can safely remove hazardous material or cover it with a new layer of gypsum board.
If tests clear the ceiling, you can remove the texture yourself, though it’s a messy job. Many homeowners choose a different approach: rather than scraping away the texture, cover it with a new ceiling finish that adds vintage or modern charm.
Recently, we removed an attic fan vent and patched the ceiling in our upstairs hallway. With that patch finished, we began brainstorming ceiling treatments that would hide the remaining texture and create a design moment. The ceiling — the “fifth wall” — is an opportunity to add real impact.
Related: 8 Small Hallway Ideas to Make Your Space Look Bigger
Related: Easy DIY: How to Install Sheet Vinyl Flooring Over Old Tile
If your only goal is a smooth ceiling, a skim coat followed by sanding and paint will do the job. But if you want your ceiling to be a focal point, consider one of these eight ceiling treatments that cover textured ceilings while adding style.
1. Pressed Tin Ceiling
Pressed tin is one of the more expensive options, but it delivers a dramatic, vintage look. Traditional tin panels typically run from budget to high-end prices depending on finish and install method. For a lower-cost option, faux tin tiles made from PVC can mimic the look, though authentic metal has a distinct charm. Pressed tin is perfect if you love ornate detail and want to completely hide the existing texture.
Tutorial: DIY Pressed Tin Ceiling
Related: DIY Pressed Tin Kitchen Backsplash to Cover Old Tile
Source: Peony and Honey
2. Track System Ceiling
A track system like Armstrong’s Easy-Up offers a no-glue installation and is a popular alternative for homeowners who don’t want to adhere tiles directly to the ceiling. Panels come in many styles, from faux pressed tin to planked looks, and install quickly. This approach is relatively affordable and reversible, making it ideal for renters or those who prefer less permanent changes.
Tutorial: How to Install a Track System Over a Popcorn Ceiling
Source: Farmhouse Living
3. Beadboard Ceiling
Beadboard is a timeless classic that installs easily over textured ceilings. Pre-primed sheets speed up painting, while raw wood beadboard can be stained for a rustic effect. It’s budget-friendly and creates a cozy, cottage-style ceiling that hides texture well.
Tutorial: How to Add Beadboard to Cover a Popcorn Ceiling
Source: Chris Loves Julia
4. Wood Paneled Ceiling
Wood planks add instant warmth and character. Lightweight cedar or similar planks can be installed by one or two people and finished with stains, white wash, or paint. Wood planks hide texture completely and create a high-end look at a moderate cost.
Tutorial: DIY Paneled Ceiling to Cover a Popcorn Ceiling
Source: A Beautiful Mess
5. Wallpaper Ceiling
Wallpaper can be a surprisingly effective ceiling finish if the texture is light enough. Certain patterns and heavier papers work best; if the texture is too rough, you can first skim coat the ceiling to create a smooth surface. We skim coated our media room ceiling before applying wallpaper, and the result felt like a whole new space.
Tutorial: How to Wallpaper a Ceiling
See the tour of our media room
6. Plywood Ceiling
Covering the ceiling with quality plywood is a simple and striking option. Use plywood sheets and trim the seams with 1×4s to achieve a coffered look or clean lines. Depending on wood choice, this approach can be cost-effective and very impactful.
Tutorial: DIY Plywood Ceiling
Source: Woodshop Diaries
7. Painted Textured Ceiling
Sometimes a fresh coat of paint is all you need. Painting a slightly textured ceiling in a bold or subtle color can modernize the room and make the texture less noticeable. This is the quickest and least expensive refresh if the texture is minor.
See the tour of our daughter’s room
8. Skim Coat or Drywall Over a Textured Ceiling
Skim coating can smooth many textured ceilings, though very heavy popcorn may resist. Another common method is to install 1/4″ drywall over the existing surface to create a fresh, smooth plane. This raises concerns about slightly lowering the ceiling height, but it’s often faster and cleaner than scraping.
Imagine the hallway ceiling repaired and finished with a thoughtful treatment — it would transform that plain white corridor. We’re still deciding which direction to take, but whichever option we choose will add personality and polish.
Which of these ceiling treatments would you choose for a hallway or entryway? We can’t wait to get started on this project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Beadboard is among the most affordable options because pre-primed sheets are available and quick to install. Patch the seams, fill nail holes, and paint for a polished result.
Covering a popcorn ceiling is often less expensive than removing it, particularly if you install the new finish yourself. Costs vary widely depending on materials and whether you hire professionals.
Scraping is messy and time-consuming. Installing 1/4″ drywall over the existing surface is typically faster and cleaner, though it reduces overall ceiling height by a small amount.
More DIY Ceiling Ideas
How to Quickly Beef Up Crown Molding
The Best Haint Blue Paint Color for Porch Ceilings
DIY Faux Block Print Ceiling Wallpaper Using Vinyl Decals
