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Removal of acoustic popcorn ceiling?

We are remodeling our house and currently have an acoustic (popcorn) textured ceiling. My wife would like to remove the popcorn texture but I am afraid it is going to hurt the sound. We have a very open floor plan and the room where our system is only has three walls (side wall is brick) with the fourth wall being our dining room and kitchen. I have a fairly modest system (compared to many of you) but I am fairly content with the sound I currently enjoy and do not wish to compromise the sound for this aesthetic change. My wife is very accommodating and has agreed that the popcorn stays if its removal will have a negative impact on the sound. Your input is greatly appreciated.

The system (if it matters):
Anthem AVM-2
Anthem MCA 5
B&W N805
B&W HTM2
Ceiling mounted rears
Klipsch sub (to be replaced by REL Storm)

- Dave
djg
glen's avatar
glen
714 posts
 
Personally I'm with your wife on this one. Popcorn ceilings are way to tacky (looking). I'm sure there is something you can do that would at least equal the sonic equivalent of that god-awful popcorn.
alexanderj
139 posts
 
I'd expect the room to liven up a bit with the removal. The other issue is the removal of this substance can cause considerable temporary elevated moisture issues, severe minute partial dust issues, and paint fumes. Be sure to protect your equipment and furnishings very well, the dust gets everywhere.

If you decide to go ahead with the removal, wear a protective mask and eye protection. Absolutely do not wear contact lens, the dust is an extreme eye irritant and quite abrasive. Also make sure the wife helps so she can fully "appreciate" all the effort involved!
themusicshop
41 posts
 
Get rid of it !! You and your wife will be happy.
zaikesman
3,017 posts
 
FWIW, I have always liked the way a textured ceiling both sounds and looks, and when I get to my final ultimate listening room, I intend to redo the ceiling as such. Seems like my sentiments are in the minority here, though.
rmacdon
5 posts
 
Excuse me for being a kill-joy here but has anyone thought about the possiblity of asbestos in the ceiling pop-corn. Before 1979 asbestos was a major part of it and even afterward. Prudence dictates that you consider this possiblity. A test would be a minor expense. And if asbestos is involve, I would have it professionally done. Or seal it up with a new sprayed-on paint job and leave it.

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