How can I prime a popcorn ceiling?

Answer by  turkinforalivin (1279)

The easiest way to do this without damaging the celing texture is to use a paint sprayer. Otherwise, they do make roller with slits in them that work as well.

Answer by  beck (1099)

It is best to use one of the very thick rollers meant for a textured surface. I would prime twice and touch up with a brush if needed using a jabbing motion. The extra thick rollers are specially made to allow paint to be spread on a very rough surface.

Answer by  CrystalEg (500)

Your best bet is to prime it using a quick drying oil based primer. Make sure that the primer completely drys before moving on to the paint. The best method of applying the primer is to use a fluffy roller or a sprayer.

Answer by  Hpd (63)

A popcorn ceiling can be primed and painted, using technique and patience. Use a paint roller with a very long nap - this is easier on the "popcorn" an will not pull it off. Use any primer, apply slowly, and watch for drips. Popcorn ceilings take longer to dry than walls.

Answer by  Tammy (585)

The easiest method would be to drape the floors with tarps and use a sprayer to apply one or two layers of a standard primer. The sprayer will simplify your process, but you can apply a primer with a rough texture roller as well. Rougher textures are designed for more porous surfaces.

Answer by  clb92873 (57)

You could either use a sprayer or you can choose to back roll using a roller on an extension pole, depending on the height of the ceiling.

Answer by  John (9008)

It is easiest to use a power painter for the primer, like that made by Wagner. You can also do it with a roller, but it will be messy.

Answer by  Srfingfreak (697)

Use a paint sprayer if you can. You need to do a lot of masking if you're going to do this, because paint spraying can be messy. If you don't want to spray it, a light touch with a roller will do you well, but you will lose some of the texturing.