FAQs
Is it worth it to remove my popcorn ceiling?
Popcorn ceiling removal can quickly climb in cost if there’s asbestos testing or removal, so it’s important to evaluate the project's short- and long-term payoffs. The short-term benefits are a fresh-looking space and a brighter ceiling, while the long-term benefits kick in when you put your home on the market.
Many realtors and new buyers consider popcorn ceilings an outdated look and a necessary home renovation and update. Weighing the time, energy, and cost of removal are all factors that may discourage potential buyers.
Is it cheaper to remove or cover up a popcorn ceiling?
How you tackle your ceiling depends on the presence of asbestos — removing asbestos popcorn ceiling costs about $3 to $7 per square foot. If there is no asbestos, scraping popcorn ceilings costs $1 to $2 per square foot.
When should I remove popcorn ceiling texture?
Barring any dangerous asbestos, the ceiling’s overall aesthetic is the most common motivator for removal—but that’s as good a reason as any to replace them. Popcorn ceiling removal may be deemed advantageous or necessary in any of the following scenarios:
The texture is cracking or in serious need of repair
There is a health concern related to asbestos
The home appears outdated, and the homeowner has plans to sell in the future
Since repairing, and even repainting can be expensive, it often makes the most sense to replace the ceiling texture altogether. Whenever possible, try to tackle this project before moving into your new home. That way, you won’t need to cover or remove your possessions to protect them from dust and falling debris.
How do you remove popcorn ceiling?
Asbestos is the biggest factor in how this ceiling finish gets removed. If it contains the hazardous material, professionals should seal off the space to safely scrape it and dispose of it.
The process will cost about half the price if there’s no asbestos. They’ll simply scrape the texture—some homeowners might even tackle the job on their own. Laying plastic sheeting on the floor makes cleaning up relatively easy as well.
What will my ceiling look like after the popcorn texture is removed?
Simple removal won't be enough to update the look of the home, unfortunately. Once the texture gets scraped off, visible marks, stains, nails, and other flaws may age the ceiling. The best course of action is to retexture it or sand it down, prime it, and paint it in a color that suits the room's style and decor.
What are some ways to save on the cost of popcorn ceiling removal?
Expenses can be a major deterrent in tackling this project, but there are a few ways to keep them down. Some ways to reduce expenses include:
Removing furniture before professionals arrive
Testing for asbestos first to determine whether DIY removal is a safe option
Handling painting and other post-removal projects without professional help