5 Reasons Why Popcorn Ceilings Aren't Really That Bad
If you're in the market for an older home, or have recently purchased one, you're probably more than a little familiar with the term "popcorn ceilings." Yes, we're talking about that white, clumpy, textured ceiling surface widely used in home construction through the late 1980s.
But fast-forward almost 40 years later and this method is anything but popular. In fact, this treatment actually can be known for throwing homeowners into an all-out frenzy. There are blog posts galore on how to remove them ASAP, and our favorite home renovation shows oftentimes denounce them too. Somewhere down the line, popcorn ceilings have become high up on the undesirable list, but why?
As someone who currently has a few popcorn ceilings in my own 1940s home, I have to say I've never been particularly bothered by them (and truth be told, I'm generally a picky person!). So, after some contemplating on how this could be, I've gathered the top five reasons why popcorn ceilings actually aren't all that bad, despite the media hype. And if you are in the same popcorn-boat as me, these reasons might help you to see that popcorn ceilings just aren't as bad as they seem!
1. Popcorn ceilings are easily transformed by paint.
A coat of paint can do wonders for your walls, so why not apply this same truth to your popcorn ceilings? If their appearance is bothersome to you and removing them isn't a current option, find a gorgeous white hue and go to work. You'll be amazed at how much this will brighten up the texturized surface, making it appear less clumpy and a lot more chic.
2. Lighting can make a huge difference.
Oftentimes popcorn ceilings get a bad reputation because of the shadows they tend to create in a room. If this darker contour is what you are concerned about, simply switch up the lighting. Adding in a downward ceiling fixture (like a chandelier or pendant) will instantly cast a gorgeous glow. If that isn't an option, just be sure to avoid any lighting options that are flush with the ceiling, as this will only add to the shadowy effect.
3. Popcorn ceilings add charm.
If you live an older home, chances are that you're surrounded by tons of charming interior details and accents. From adorable built-ins, to authentic brass doorknobs, these original features create an abode that's one-of-a-kind. So, why do popcorn ceilings have to be any different? You can choose to see it as a negative, or you can instead see the popcorn ceilings as another endearing quality of an older, but still very delightful, home.
4. Ceilings aren't typically a focal point, anyway.
Can you describe exactly what your best friend's ceiling looks like, or your mom's? Probably not. Ceilings aren't usually the first design element people notice after entering a room, so why stress over something that will most likely go unnoticed? If you want to guarantee your guests aren't tempted to look up, add in a bold area rug or large piece of art to distract their eyes.
5. Popcorn ceilings aren't permanent.
At the end of the day, these ceilings aren't even permanent! You can simply hire a professional to scrape them whenever you're ready for a reno. Or, as mentioned earlier, there are also plenty of helpful DIY tutorials if you wanted to take on the project yourself. Either way, the option to eventually change your popcorn ceilings is always there, so don't let this smaller detail turn you away from a home that you otherwise love. And in the meantime, try to embrace them!
Photos by Jasmin Hejazi Photography
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