How to Perform Ceiling Repairs

Most ceiling repair jobs require a ladder. Make sure you have one that's tall and sturdy enough to safely reach your ceiling and refer to the ladder's manufacturer instructions for safe use. To ensure you purchase the right ladder type for the job at hand, check out our ladder buying guide. This in-depth guide explains the different types of ladders including step ladders, extension ladders and more. It also includes general ladder safety information.

Follow these easy tips and watch the videos linked below to quickly perform different ceiling repairs. These tips will help you fix cracks, nail pops and large holes in the ceiling. They’ll even help you remove a popcorn ceiling.

Fix Cracks

• Sand away any loose paint and drywall.
• Apply mesh tape over the crack.
• Spread joint compound over the tape and smooth it out.

Repair Nail Pops

• Drive screws into both sides of the stud the nail is in.
• Remove any damaged material and remove or replace the original screw.
• Spread joint compound over the screws.

Drywall Ceiling Repair for Large Holes

• Cut a rectangle around the damaged area.
• Add wooden cleats behind each side for support.
• Attach a patch piece to the cleats.
• Place mesh tape over the patch piece and spread joint compound.
• Apply a second and third coat of the compound over repairs and then sand until smooth.
• Clean with a damp rag to remove dust; prime and paint the ceiling to match.

No longer a fan of that popcorn ceiling? It’s easier to remove than you might think. Follow these tips from our DIY Basics video: How Do I Remove a Popcorn Ceiling?

Prep Work

• Test a small area in a corner to see if your ceiling is painted or not. To do this, spray water in the area and scrape. Painted texture won’t come off easily, but normal texture will.
• Use a paint stripper according to the manufacturer’s instructions to remove painted texture, or call a professional.
• Cover outlets and fixtures with plastic sheeting and tape.
• Cover the floors and bottom third of the walls with plastic.
• Turn off power to the room.

Remove the Texture

• Fill a new garden sprayer with plain water.
• Spray a 5-foot section at a time, wait for the water to absorb, and then scrape with a large putty knife or trowel.
• Be careful to avoid scratching the ceiling underneath.
• Spray difficult areas again to loosen them.

Finish the Ceiling

• Wait for the ceiling to dry completely.
• Smooth the joints and fill scratches with joint compound.
• Sand with a drywall sanding pad and finer sandpaper until smooth.
• Prime and paint your ceiling to finish.