Cleaning

• The nooks and crannies of textured drywall, especially the rougher patterns, provide a perfect gathering place for dust and dirt. Liquid cleaners may damage the surface and are not recommended for rougher textures. Test an inconspicuous area before cleaning the entire wall. Use a nylon sock as a wash rag. Sponges may fray on the rough surface and leave bits in the crevices of the texture. If you are unable to use a liquid cleanser, use a feather duster or soft cloth to gently remove the dust or cobwebs. A vacuum with a soft brush attachment is an effective method to clean a rough textured surface.
  
  

Damage

• Drywall repair can be a nuisance, but textured walls offer the added challenge of matching the texture pattern. You may be able to blend small areas by dabbing or flicking paint with a paint brush. Aerosol texture, is an attractive option for texture repair. The product is applied on the surface with a spray can. Be sure to practice your spraying technique on a piece of cardboard before spraying your walls.
  
  

Painting

• It is important to use the proper tools when painting a textured surface. Use a roller-cover with a long nap. They hold more paint and get into crevices better than short nap roller-covers. A 1/2 inch roller-cover is recommended for medium rough surfaces. Use a 3/4 inch nap for rougher surfaces. Always test an inconspicuous area first. Roller covers may pull the texture from the wall. A paint sprayer may be the best option for deeply textured surface. The sprayers are available to purchase, and in many cases rent, at home improvement retail centers.
  
  

Removal

• Change can be good, but if you are thinking of removing your popcorn ceiling, be careful. Many textured ceilings installed prior to the mid 1980s contain asbestos. Asbestos is an extreme health hazard and should only be removed by trained professionals. If you do not know when your textured ceiling was installed, contact your local health department for information on how to get it tested.