How much does a stretch ceiling cost?
How much does a stretch ceiling cost?
$6 – $15 cost per square foot installed
$860 – $2,200 average total cost (12’x12’ room)
$9,000 – $22,500 total cost (1,500 square feet)
Stretch ceiling installation cost
A stretch ceiling costs $3 to $8+ per square foot for materials alone and $6 to $15 per square foot including professional installation. Premium stretch ceiling materials cost more, especially custom patterns, uncommon finishes, or 3D effects. Making openings for existing lights, ceiling fans, or vents may cost more.
| Project | Square footage | Average cost installed |
|---|---|---|
| 5x8 Bathroom | 40 | $240 – $600 |
| 12x12 Bedroom | 144 | $860 – $2,200 |
| 14x20 Primary bedroom | 280 | $1,700 – $4,200 |
| 16x20 Living room | 320 | $1,900 – $4,800 |
| 20x20 Garage | 400 | $2,400 – $6,000 |
| Basement | 1,000 | $6,000 – $15,000 |
| 1,500 SF house | 1,500 | $9,000 – $22,500 |
| 2,000 SF house | 2,000 | $12,000 – $30,000 |
| 2,500 SF house | 2,500 | $15,000 – $37,500 |
| 3,000 SF house | 3,000 | $18,000 – $45,000 |
What is a stretch ceiling?
A stretch ceiling is a suspended system consisting of a lightweight PVC or fabric membrane that an installer heats, stretches, and attaches to a perimeter track. This creates a smooth, seamless surface just below the original ceiling, allowing for a variety of colors, finishes, and even custom prints.
Stretch ceilings are popular for their modern appearance, quick installation, and versatility. They are waterproof, low-maintenance, and can easily incorporate lighting, vents, or other fixtures, making them suitable for both residential and commercial spaces.
Stretch ceiling price by type
Stretch ceiling material comes in a wide variety of colors, finishes, and patterns. The most common, least expensive option is a plain white PVC. For a higher price, homeowners can customize their ceiling and match their home’s design style.
| Ceiling type | Cost per square foot* |
|---|---|
| Basic | $3 – $8 |
| Premium finishes | $7 – $15+ |
*For materials only, not including installation
Basic
A basic stretch ceiling costs $3 to $8 per square foot and may include multiple colors but does not include any prints or patterns. Plain white PVC or polyester may seem boring, but it can add a smooth, clean feel to a room and boost brightness by reflecting more light.
Premium
Premium stretch ceiling materials cost $7 to $15+ per square foot and come with a greater variety of finishes, including:
Prints and patterns
Translucent
Pearlescent
Reflective
Matte
Gloss
3D
Stretch ceiling cost factors
The cost to install a stretch ceiling will depend mostly on the type of material you choose and local labor rates. Choosing experienced professionals may cost more, but you’ll end up with a higher-quality installation.
| Factor | Cost per square foot |
|---|---|
| Materials | $3 – $8 |
| Labor | $3 – $7 |
| Total average cost | $6 – $15 |
The following factors also influence installation costs:
Ceiling height: Installers may charge more to work on tall or vaulted ceilings due to the risk and the equipment required.
Complexity: Rooms with more corners and angles will take more time and effort to work on, which may increase costs.
Room size: Larger rooms require more materials and time to install.
Insertions: Installing a stretch ceiling in an area with multiple lighting fixtures, vents, or fans will cost more.
Repairs: Ceiling repairs cost $200 to $500 for minor fixes or $400 to $1,200 for extensive repairs. Do not attempt to install the stretch material over a damaged ceiling without repairing it first.
For an added fee, you can install backlighting or acoustic panels behind or next to the membrane. This can add a luxurious feel to your home.
Other ceiling types
A ceiling installation costs $2 to $4 per square foot on average or up to $70 per square foot for vaulted ceilings, including installation. Compare multiple options below to see which option is right for you:
| Ceiling type | Average cost per square foot installed |
|---|---|
| Stretch ceiling | $6 – $15+ |
| Drywall ceiling cost | $2 – $4 |
| Drop ceiling cost | $4 – $20 |
| Tray ceiling cost | $3 – $7 |
| Coffered ceiling cost | $10 – $40 |
| Tongue and groove ceiling cost | $4 – $10 |
| Vaulted ceiling cost | $40 – $70 |
Stretch ceiling FAQs
How long does stretch ceiling installation take?
Stretch ceiling installation is typically a quick process, taking around 2 to 4 hours for an average-sized room. Adding features like light fixtures increases the time by about 20 minutes per fixture.
More complex designs, such as multi-level ceilings or rooms with high ceilings, can extend installation to 8 to 10 hours, but most rooms are completed within a single day. The process is clean, with minimal disruption and no significant debris left behind.
Can you repair stretch ceilings if damaged?
Yes, you can often repair stretch ceilings if they get damaged. For small holes or cuts near the wall, installers can re-tension the membrane or use special adhesives to fix the damage without leaving a trace. They may also apply patches or decorative stickers for minor punctures.
If the damage is large or at the seams, professionals will assess whether to repair or replace the affected panel. Avoid trying complex repairs yourself, as improper handling can worsen the damage and void your warranty.
Can you paint a stretch ceiling?
You can paint polyester fabric stretch ceilings using water-based latex paint for good adhesion and flexibility. This refreshes their appearance and adds protection. Clean the surface thoroughly and use a spray gun for even coverage.
Professional ceiling painters charge $1 to $2 per square foot. Avoid painting PVC stretch ceilings, as paint won’t stick and can cause sagging or damage.
Getting estimates from ceiling installers
When searching for local ceiling contractors to install a stretch ceiling, follow these steps:
Obtain at least three free quotes from different contractors to compare prices.
Check customer reviews on HomeGuide and Google to evaluate their reputation.
Select a contractor who is licensed, bonded, and has proven experience.
Ensure you receive a written contract before any work begins.
Use a payment plan rather than paying the full amount upfront.
Questions to ask ceiling installers
Ask your stretch ceiling installer the following questions before they start:
Does your quote include materials, labor, and accessories?
What type and brand of membrane will you use?
Are there additional costs for lights, vents, or custom features?
How long will the installation take?
What warranty do you offer on materials and workmanship?
Are you licensed and insured?
Can you provide references or photos of past installations?
How do you handle repairs if the membrane is damaged?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.