Two kinds of Decatur ceiling
Mid-century ranches and split-levels
Many of the neighborhoods with a Decatur address, especially in unincorporated DeKalb, were built from the 1950s through the 1970s. These homes usually have drywall ceilings, and popcorn is common. They're the most straightforward projects: flat ceilings at standard height, with the usual testing, removal, repair and finish steps.
Older homes with plaster
Decatur's older bungalows and cottages were built with plaster ceilings.[VERIFY: Decatur older housing stock (pre-1940 bungalows)] Some were later sprayed with popcorn to hide cracks. Plaster needs a different approach:
- Less water. Heavy soaking can loosen old plaster, so removal is more careful.
- Crack and bond repair. The texture may be hiding cracks or areas where the plaster has pulled away from the lath, which have to be secured before finishing. See ceiling repair.
- Sometimes cover instead of remove. If the plaster is badly cracked, covering the ceiling with thin drywall can be the more sensible choice.
Planning the job
Whatever the house, have older texture tested before it's disturbed; see testing a popcorn ceiling. For finish, a smooth ceiling suits both ranches and restored older homes; a light texture is a lower-cost option in secondary rooms.
City of Decatur or unincorporated DeKalb?
The City of Decatur handles permits inside its own limits, and DeKalb County handles the many Decatur addresses outside them.[VERIFY: Decatur vs DeKalb permitting] Removing texture and painting is cosmetic work that generally doesn't need a permit, while electrical work such as moving light fixtures or adding fans does. Your professional should know what applies to your address.
Costs
Plaster repair and painted texture are the biggest variables in Decatur. The cost guide covers the rest.