Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on HomeGuide.
How much does popcorn ceiling removal cost?
Popcorn ceiling removal costs$1 to $2 per square foot for removal only or $2 to $6 per square foot for removal with new texture and paint. The average removal job costs $2,000 to $9,000. Popcorn ceilings were popular at one time but now make homes look outdated. This ceiling style also catches dust and cobwebs.
Popcorn ceilings installed before 1986 may contain asbestos, which is toxic and must be disposed of properly:
Once you have the popcorn material removed, you’ll need to refinish the ceiling, which includes adding texture or smoothing the ceiling and adding paint. The total cost to remove popcorn, texture the substrate, and paint is $3 to $6 per square foot.
Does removing a popcorn ceiling increase home value?
Removing a popcorn ceiling increases home value in most cases because it makes the home appear more modern and less outdated. Although removal is a messy job, it's especially worth it when the ceiling is made with asbestos.
How long does it take to remove popcorn ceiling?
Removing popcorn ceiling takes 1 to 5 days on average, depending on the ceiling size. The removal process includes:
Moving furniture and other items
Covering vents and floors
Soaking the popcorn to soften it
Scraping or sanding the popcorn off
Cleaning up residue
Some popcorn removal professionals have vacuums or bags attached to their devices to contain residue and minimize messes.
Do popcorn ceilings contain asbestos?
If you have an older home made between the 1920s and 1980s, your popcorn ceiling could be made with asbestos, which is a known carcinogen and can cause lung cancer if not handled properly. Have your ceiling tested to see if it contains asbestos. If the test is positive, you will need a professional who does remodeling and asbestos abatement to remove it.
Can I remove a popcorn ceiling myself?
Removing popcorn ceiling is an incredibly messy process and is not for the faint of heart. While it’s possible to do it yourself, hiring a professional to do it for you and clean up the mess afterward is easier and much more time effective.
If you decide to remove it yourself, make sure there is no asbestos in the ceiling before starting the project.
How do I hire a popcorn ceiling remover?
Start by searching our list of popcorn ceiling removers near you, then:
Get three or more free estimates to compare.
Research company reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Choose a licensed, bonded, and experienced contractor.
Make sure their insurance and warranty is up to date.
Get a written estimate and warranty before work begins.
Follow a payment plan instead of making one large payment up front.
What questions should I ask popcorn ceiling removers?
To find quality contractors, ask the following questions:
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Do you offer same-day service? If not, how soon can I make an appointment?
Do you perform on-site asbestos testing?
Are you qualified to remove asbestos if it's found in my ceiling?
How do you handle damage that happens on the job?
How long will the removal take?
Will you remove or cover my furniture from the room?
Do you offer a warranty for your work?
Can you give me an estimate in writing?
Reviews for Atlanta popcorn ceiling removal contractors
Recent success stories from people in the Atlanta area.
Donald G.
Did a great job. Tuesday, I made a request, Wednesday, received an estimate, Thursday, job complete and 120% happy. Bottom of my kitchen sink cabinet done.
Mostly floors and home remodeling
Emily J.
Outstanding job on our drywall repair! The team was courteous, knowledgeable, and completed the job in a timely manner. Our walls look seamless now, and we couldn't be happier with the results.
Omega Drywall
Tommie J.
This representative from this company had the best attitude and customer service.I've seen in a long time.She works on time.Comes on time finishes on time.Very possible work was extremely well done. They replaced a keyless door lock.
Replaced light fixtures and help with the multitude of other projects. I'm extremely satisfied with this company and their services, especially the professionalism of their people..
Proven Path LLC
Nicollete B.
Paint or Stain Paneling
They did a wonderful job, very professional, they paid great attention to detail, and if there were any issues, they fixed them right away!
Paint Champs
Canon M.
They came and painted three rooms in my house
They did a good job I will hire them again.
Safan'home improvement
Kathleen S.
I had a list of items that needed to be done. Josh and William completed every one of them. I am so happy to have found them. I am already thinking of what needs to be done next. What I really appreciated is that if they can repair it instead of replacing they will.
Incredible remodeling
How HomeGuide works
Search
Search, get cost estimates, contact pros, and book—all for free.
Compare
View profiles, read reviews, check qualifications, and see prices before hiring.
Hire
Ask questions, confirm their availability, and hire the right pro when you're ready.
Nearby popcorn ceiling removers in and around Atlanta