Test for asbestos before disturbing any popcorn ceiling installed before 1980
Turn off power to the room and remove or cover light fixtures
Cover floors, walls, and furniture with plastic sheeting
Wear a respirator, goggles, gloves, and disposable coveralls
Mist the ceiling lightly with water to soften the texture
Scrape off loose or damaged popcorn texture with a wide putty knife
Patch holes, cracks, and damaged drywall with joint compound
Sand the repaired areas smooth after they dry
Prime the ceiling with a stain-blocking primer
Apply a new texture if needed, such as knockdown or orange peel
Paint the ceiling with ceiling paint after the texture dries
Replace fixtures and clean up dust carefully
Hire a licensed professional if asbestos is suspected or the ceiling is heavily damaged