"MikeB" wrote in message
...
In the attached pictures, is this "popcorn" treatment of the ceiling?

http://i34.tinypic.com/18ok1z.jpg

http://i34.tinypic.com/30w8ccp.jpg

Whatever it is, it is kind of "crumbly" and if one touches it or
brushes against it hard, it seems to fall off in little crumbs.

We're thinking of repainting the room, and I wonder if I can simply
scrape this off the ceiling and repaint? SHould I put on a primer?

It is in an upstairs room and I'm also not sure if this treatment is
perhaps partially an insulation, although I doubt it.

Been there, done that. I took a piece of Oak board about 4 inches by 16
inches and 3/4 inch thick. Drilled a hole in it to accept an old broom
handle. Would rest the square edge against the ceiling and scrap the popcorn
off. This left a nice textured ceiling. Primed it and painted. Looked great.
WW