Popcorn ceilings have been disliked by many homeowners for years, but decades ago, it was the standard for ceilings throughout the entire house. It’s not unusual to want to improve your popcorn ceilings along with the rest of your home renovation projects. Out with the old, in with the new.

Popcorn ceilings, also known as Stucco ceilings, were made using a paint-on treatment. Most were made in the 1950s to the 1980s in American residential homes.

You may have heard that popcorn ceilings contain asbestos, but this is true only of ceilings that were applied through the 80s. When the asbestos-bearing ceilings were banned, popcorn ceilings were made using a Styrofoam product to create the texture it is known for.

There are some good things to love about popcorn ceilings. They give off a bright appearance and they hide imperfections in the ceiling quite well. They also have noise reduction qualities. All that being said, maybe you don’t love your popcorn ceilings. But you’d like to give them a chance with some new paint. Check out the following ways to use paint to love your popcorn ceilings:

Change the lighting to improve your popcorn ceilings

If you have ceiling lights that cast straight out, it probably creates shadows and makes the ceiling look lumpy. Try using more directional lights, such as fixtures that point down instead of out. Or, use light bulbs that cast a softer light if you don’t want to change the fixtures.

Use more paint

A fresh coat will actually tone down your popcorn ceiling. It will also hide any stains and give the room a fresh feel.

Draw the eye away from the ceiling

When all else fails, you can easily draw attention away from the popcorn ceiling by painting a wall a bright color. Other eye-catching elements will create the same effect.

With a little paint and some new lighting, you can learn to love your popcorn ceilings for years to come!