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What kind of ceiling texture?

PKelton | Posted in Construction Techniques on May 18, 2009 11:20am

Got a project where a portion of the ceiling needs to be replaced from water damage. It is very textured, looking almost like paper mache, or even WR Grace Monokote fireproofing material used in commercial buildings. It looks as if has been sprayed on. The client insists that it’s not asbestos.

Now my question is this: Where would one buy this stuff? This doesn’t seem to be the usual item that you’d pick up at the local well-stocked building supply. Has anybody ever had experience with this?

Any comments or suggestions would greatly be appreciated. Thanks to all who respond.

PK

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  1. webted | May 18, 2009 11:46pm | #1

    "The client insists that it's not asbestos."

    If it's pre-1980 construction, I'd want to know HOW they know? It's only about $35 to get it tested - and testing is the only way to be certain - unless they know exactly what it is.

    If you aren't tearing into it, of course, asbestos really doesn't matter.

    Sorry, no idea on matching it. I'd find a well-stocked paint supply house, they'd probably have a better selection of options.

    -t

  2. levelone | May 19, 2009 12:01am | #2

    Homax makes popcorn texture spray.  I haven't used it but have seen it at places like Lowes and HD.  I would assume with some trial and error you could match the existing texture.

    If you are doing much demo, I would get it tested for asbestos.  I have seen texture just like this both with and without.

    Hope that helps.

  3. Sbds | May 19, 2009 12:13am | #3

    Here is one way I've seen it done.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vY2J9SSqQ8&feature=related

  4. Hiker | May 19, 2009 01:52pm | #4

    If it is not the fireproofing, then it must be a bunch of spitballs. Why would you want that on your ceiling.

    Best of luck on that one.

  5. Dave45 | May 19, 2009 06:53pm | #5

    That looks like the "popcorn" acoustical texturing that is common here in CA. Yours looks like it may have had several coats of paint.

    It's usually sprayed on and patching and/or blending it can be a real PITA. Around here, I would bring in a sub with the right spray equipment and let them handle it - followed by a repaint of the entire ceiling.

    It may or may not have asbestos in it and if it's been painted, it probably isn't much of a hazard. Unless you're going to remove the old stuff, I wouldn't worry about it.

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