removing heavily textured plaster from drywall ceiling

[cldevelopmentllc]

I am remodeling a home with heavily textured plaster over drywall ceilings in two rooms. I need a smooth ceiling. What is the best way to accomplish this? I also need to remove a very large round ceiling medallion, also plaster. Sanding does not seem to be an option, as the plaster is quite hard and the texture very coarse. I have contemplated removing the ceiling and replacing the drywall, but this seems extreme. Thanks in advance.

Chris G.
Virginia Beach, VA

[Mark G]

Use a 1 1/2 putty knife as a chisel with a hammer to remove the medallion. Float the ceiling.

[Joepro0000]

This has been discussed so much around here. The best way to do it is to apply a think layer of mud with a 10 or 12 inch knife, and fill out the entire ceiling. Then repeat this process 2 more times, and you should be happy. Sanding is not going to remove it, and scraping it off with a chisel will only make you go back and touch up the ceiling anyways.

My other solution, screw in some 1/4" or 1/2" drywall in the ceiling and refinish smooth.

[cldevelopmentllc]

Thanks for the reply. I want to add a fair amount of recessed lighting, and have decided to demo the ceiling a replace the drywall. All rooms will have crown moulding, reducing the mudding labor.

Chris G.
Virginia Beach, VA

[Joepro0000]

Yea I think thats the best choice, its the easiest. In about no more than 2 hours you can demo and clean up the mess, verses spending all that time.