What Does Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost?

The cost of removing a popcorn ceiling can vary depending on many factors such as the size of the room, the condition of the ceiling, your location, and the specific contractor or service you hire. On average, the cost of removing a popcorn ceiling can range from $1 to $3 per square foot. You should get quotes from several contractors in your area to better understand the specific costs of the project. Also, remember to choose a reputable contractor, experienced in removing plaster ceilings to ensure the desired results.

Popcorn ceilings were all the rage decades ago, but if you're looking to make some aesthetic updates for a brighter look or are planning to put your home up for sale, then perhaps it's time to go. It's time to say goodbye to the thorny texture of the ceiling. If you have a simple, straightforward project, you can expect to pay as little as $924 in popcorn removal fees. If you have a larger home or higher ceilings, you can pay up to $2,968. Most homeowners spend an average of $1,930 on the shelf to remove popcorn lids.

Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost Factors

When determining the cost of removing the popcorn ceiling, several factors come into play. Here are some key factors that can affect the overall cost:

Room size: The size of the room or the area with the popcorn ceiling will affect the cost. Larger parts will often require more time, labor, and materials, which can lead to higher costs.
Ceiling Condition: The condition of the popcorn ceiling can affect the cost. If the ceiling has significant damage, such as water stains, cracks or previously repaired, additional repair work or surface preparation may be required prior to structural removal.
Contains asbestos: Popcorn ceilings installed before the late 1970s may contain asbestos, a hazardous material. If asbestos is likely, the contractor may need to test it prior to removal. Asbestos testing and mitigation can significantly increase total costs due to the specialized procedures and safety measures involved.
Ceiling height and accessibility: Higher or more difficult-to-reach ceilings may require additional equipment, such as scaffolding or ladders, for safe and efficient movement. The need for specialized equipment or access can contribute to increased costs.
Additional Repairs and Finishes: After the popcorn ceiling is removed, the ceiling below may need repairs, such as patching holes, smoothing out imperfections, or applying a new finish. These additional tasks can increase the overall cost.
Location: Labor and material costs may vary depending on your geographic location. Prices may be higher in some areas due to factors such as local labor rates, cost of living and market demand.

Popcorn Removal Process

Create walkways - protect all types of flooring - from the sidewalk to every room in the home where ceilings need to be removed.
Take out as many items as possible. Remove lights, fans, and ceiling vents. Fill lighting spaces with newspaper, cover electrical outlets with tape, and cut them off.
Turn off heating and air conditioning and cover ceiling vents. Protect the entire room from clutter first.
Cover floors and walls with plastic sheeting and plastic cloth. Pre-glued plastic sheets can be a godsend.
Do not use wipes because of the amount of water you will need to spray the ceiling and the amount of cleaning work required afterwards.
Remove alarm sensors and smoke detectors.

Cover the Popcorn Ceiling with Drywall or Wood

The third option you have is to cover your popcorn ceiling with drywall or new wood paneling. From a cost and time perspective, this job may require hiring professional drywall contractors or painters to do the carpentry. The average cost of hiring a professional to cover a popcorn ceiling with new drywall ranges from $10 to $20 per square foot or $2,849 in total. However, if you have a small room with small popcorn ceilings, this is a job you can do yourself fairly easily. That is, if you are a proficient hammer user, know how to use a drywall cutter, or have applied a coat or two of paint during the day.

How Much Does It Cost to Remove the Popcorn Ceiling?

If you are wondering how to remove the popcorn ceiling, know that removing the popcorn ceiling is a laborious undertaking and the cost reflects that. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to remove a popcorn ceiling is between $1 and $2 per square foot. The average owner will pay around $1,780. However, that is the price you have to pay to remove the cover. After that, you will still have to pay to repaint the ceiling, texture and repaint, or cover in some other way.