Popcorn Ceiling Removal & Repair

Popcorn ceiling removal has continued to be a popular home improvement service in 2020. Once a popular home design trend that has now fallen to the wayside. More and more homeowners are interested in popcorn ceiling removal but some still consider popcorn ceiling repair as a lower cost alternative. 

These rugged nodules are great for hiding flaws, but they are also known for trapping debris and are somewhat challenging to clean when compared to smooth ceiling or even textured ceiling surfaces.Essentially, it boils down to style preference, convenience and expense when determining whether repairing popcorn ceilings or having them eradicated permanently is the best option. Drywall repair companies can offer professional guidance on this matter. For now, let’s discuss what popcorn ceilings are, the process of removal and repairs and estimated costs associated with this task. Read further to decide which action is best for your situation.

What Are Popcorn Ceilings?

‘Popcorn’ is a term that refers to the bubbled or raised look provided by using a texturizing material added to plaster and drywall ceilings. In the 1960s when it was first conceived, it was the most popular way to add visual texture overhead. It was also used to hide flaws that are often a result of removing damaged drywall or switching out light fixtures. 

However, it has proven challenging to keep these surfaces dust-free and tends to chip when it’s given a good cleaning. For these reasons, more individuals are opting for popcorn ceiling removal in lieu of popcorn ceiling repair.

Why Popcorn Ceiling Removal is a Popular Option Today

Repairing popcorn ceilings is arguably the easiest and most affordable option home and business owners can consider, but removal might be the best decision for numerous reasons. For starters, the look is out of fashion and can actually hurt the value of a property. Homes without popcorn ceilings often sell for higher prices in the future. Smooth, high ceilings make spaces look brighter and bigger, which tends to add more value to a home. If smooth ceilings or walls aren’t your thing, we find that spanish lace or knockdown textures look very nice and serve as an attractive alternative to no texture.

Also, modern homes rarely contain popcorn ceilings these days, and older homes with this textured look might discover that asbestos is a component of this popcorn material. This is a definite problem to keep in mind, making eradicating it through professional popcorn ceiling removal a safer choice. 

If you decide to remove the material yourself, great caution is necessary to ensure your health and safety. Testing should be performed before you begin the removal process. Oftentimes, these extra steps make calling a pro a wise decision—even if you plan to undergo the process through a DIY project.

How Much Does Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost?

A good bit of planning and effort goes into removing or repairing popcorn ceilings, and cost estimates will depend on how large the areas of ceiling are. 

It’s important to note that repairs and touch ups are challenging, as matching old texture can prove nearly impossible. Therefore, an entire area may need to be redone for the best results. This type of ‘skim coating’ typically can cost anywhere from $1.50 to $2.00 per square foot, per room for priming and the touch up work.

Those seeking smooth ceilings throughout the structure will be looking at a bit more, as it can take several days to a week to scrape away the old texture, sand, prime and paint each room. The scraping process alone is rather messy and may have to be repeated as many as five times to restore the smooth feeling of the sheetrock. Because of the intensity of the process, Be prepared to pay a little more. 

What to Expect During Popcorn Ceiling Removal 

Whether you’re tackling the project yourself or hiring a pro, the process will generally entail the same procedures. The first step is to have the ceiling tested for asbestos to ensure proper protection can be taken during removal. Even without asbestos present, workers will need protective eyewear, gloves, and a face mask for shielding.

Next, completely remove all furnishings and secure drop cloths on the floors and non-removable items, because the intense mess involved could damage property. Ceiling fans and light fixtures should be removed or covered and secured with painters tape. Popcorn ceiling scraping is generally done by hand, and a water sprayer might be used to lightly mist the ceiling in effort to soften up the texturizing material.

The area will likely require multiple scraping sessions, and working in small sections is most effective. Once the bubbles are gone, the areas need to be sanded, primed and then painted the desired final color. The final step will involve clean up. Because it is so labor intensive, many individuals opt for professional popcorn removal services over DIY projects.

If you are looking for professional help with removing or repairing your popcorn ceilings, we’re just a call away. JD Oates Drywall has over 40 years of experience installing and repairing drywall as well as textured ceiling and textured wall repair. 

We’re a small team that handles each and every project with professional precision and we’d be happy to work with you. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in Citrus County and the surrounding areas restore the beauty and integrity of their homes. We can do the same for yours.

Contact us today to receive a free quote. We look forward to hearing from you soon!