Is Covering a Textured Ceiling with New Drywall a Good Idea?
Asked by QuirkyNinja42
Hey everyone, I'm in a bit of a situation with my ceiling and would love your thoughts. It's really heavily textured, and I've found out that it requires special abatement, so taking it down isn't really a feasible option for me right now. The previous owner added some quirky embellishments that stick out about half an inch, and removing those would be super complicated and time-consuming. I was thinking about installing strapping on the existing ceiling and then extending the electric boxes before putting up new drywall. This could allow me to run wires for speakers and potentially flush-mount some lighting, all while avoiding the hassle posed by the heavy texture. I'm looking for any advice on whether this plan makes sense and if it would meet building codes. Thanks!
Answers
I’d urge against adding more layers to a ceiling that’s already a mess. It might seem easier, but you’ll just end up with a thicker headache. I suggest tearing it down and upgrading your electrical, sound, HVAC, and plumbing to code. It sounds like a lot of work, but it could save you from future issues.
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A lot of people actually cover old ceilings with drywall, and it can work out fine! Just keep in mind that local building codes vary, so check what applies to you. It's not super complicated, and I've done similar things in places that had issues like yours. Just make sure your strapping is nailed securely and shimmed out to keep everything level. That should give you a solid foundation for the new drywall.
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How old is the work you’re dealing with? Sometimes knowing the timeline helps in deciding what's best to do.
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