Also called textured or acoustic ceilings, popcorn ceilings were a popular choice back in the 1950s. These textured ceilings resembled cottage cheese due to sponge stippling or being sprayed with a hopper gun with a special textured mix.

Over the years, homeowners didn't find popcorn ceilings aesthetically pleasing and wanted them gone. They believed these ceilings made the homes feel dated and sought more modern appearances. Plus, asbestos, which was a binding ingredient in the ceilings as late as the 1970s, was found to cause a type of cancer called mesothelioma.

However, popcorn ceilings have seen a resurgence thanks to a new type of popcorn mixture material made with pieces of polystyrene. These types of ceilings offer several advantages over regular smooth ceilings.

Popcorn ceilings were originally a popular option for builders because builders could hide imperfections such as the tape and dirt seams used for plasterboard. While a flat or non-textured finish can appear nice, finishing neatly is often difficult because each ripple or dent might show.

They also don't involve a lot of prep work when compared to a smooth ceiling, which requires you to smooth all the holes, cracks, and minor damage. Once dry, the area must also be sanded before you can apply a base coat, and once that part is dry, you need to apply a thin coat of plaster. Only then can you paint the ceiling. With a popcorn ceiling, you clean and prime the area, and then spray the mix with a hopper gun.

Popcorn ceilings also reduce ambient sounds and echoes due to an increased surface area with the raised bumps. They're a nice option for multistory homes if you want to reduce noise from the higher levels.

If you're looking for a way to add visual interest to a room or minimize the noise from upstairs, consider putting in a popcorn ceiling. They're also a solid option if you're looking for a way to hide imperfections, so reach out to a contractor to have a popcorn ceiling installed.

Sources: Classichandymanco.com, Homestars.com, Fixr.com