There is no one answer to this question. The price you pay to have your popcorn ceiling removed will depend on a variety of factors. We’ll discuss some of them below to give you a better idea of what elements drive the cost of this service. 

• The area to be covered. Ultimately, the larger the surface area that needs popcorn ceiling removal, the greater the cost.   
• Additional safety concerns. There’s no denying that popcorn ceiling removal can be dangerous. If yours was installed prior to 1980, it may contain asbestos, which will require additional precautions. This could add to the overall cost.  
• The contractor you choose. Some service providers charge exorbitant prices for the same job, so it’s important to do your research before deciding on a company. Keep in mind that service fees should not be the deciding factor. Be sure to check the company’s track record, past jobs, and customer ratings before making a choice.   

Because there are so many factors that influence the cost of popcorn ceiling removal, it’s best to contact a contractor for a more accurate quote.  

While you can technically get rid of a popcorn ceiling yourself, we definitely do not recommend it. That’s because some ceilings may contain asbestos, which can be extremely harmful if inhaled. 

Plus, ceiling removal can expose you to other risks, as well. Falling objects, the use of sharp tools, and dust could also put your health and safety in jeopardy.  

Going in without any professional knowledge or experience could result in serious consequences. Moreover, contractors have many years of experience and can complete the project a lot faster, ensuring a professional finish that will stand the test of time.  

Another great reason not to try a DIY removal is because of possible damage to underlying structures. This can cost you a significant amount of money to fix, so it’s always best to leave this job to the pros. 

Several factors influence the cost-effectiveness of eliminating popcorn ceilings vs covering them up.  

While concealing the popcorn texture with joint compound or other materials may appear to be a faster and more affordable approach, achieving a clean finish can be difficult, potentially requiring several coats of compound and finishing steps.  

Additionally, you need to remember that this method may not remove the possibility of future problems. On the other hand, getting rid of popcorn ceilings can be a time-consuming process that requires scraping, fixing, and refinishing.  

While removal can be more expensive at first, it generally produces a more modern and appealing ceiling. The decision will ultimately be determined by your budget, preferred design, and whether you would like a quick fix or a more thorough, long-term solution. 

Sanding is likely a bad idea, especially if you have a ceiling that may contain asbestos. This can expose you and your family to dangerous particles that can cause respiratory issues when inhaled.  

However, a combination of scraping and sanding may be necessary to achieve a smooth finish. Sanding alone may be less successful for popcorn ceiling removal because it can result in a sloppy and uneven finish.  

When deciding which option to choose, you will need to think about the material your ceiling is made from, your tolerance for dust particles, and the thickness of your popcorn texture. We recommend talking to a professional to learn more about your options.  

Vacuuming is the best way to clean your textured ceiling without having to worry about water dripping onto your furniture or floors or dust particles flooding your breathing air.  

To clean a ceiling with a vacuum, use the soft bristle attachment and ensure that the vacuum cleaner you are using has a HEPA filter. Work slowly in small sections to avoid spreading dust. Suppose you don’t have a vacuum cleaner. In that case, you can use an extendable duster. Make sure your duster has a flexible head.  

Keep in mind that using water or liquid cleaning solutions to clean your ceiling can cause damage, so just use a vacuum or duster for the best results.