Popcorn Ceiling Removal
Popcorn ceilings were very common in homes built before the early 1980s. Many homeowners want them removed because they collect dust, look dated, and can be difficult to clean. Removal can dramatically update a room, but it requires proper testing and careful handling, especially in older homes.
What We Cover
- Asbestos testing when needed
- Safe removal of popcorn texture
- Dust and debris containment
- Post-removal surface preparation
- Texture options (smooth, knockdown, orange peel, etc.)
- Painting after removal
How We Approach It
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Test for asbestos
We recommend professional testing for homes built before the early 1980s, as popcorn texture from that era may contain asbestos.
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Contain the work area if needed
We set up containment with plastic sheeting and negative air machines to keep dust from spreading through the house.
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Remove the texture
We use wet methods and specialized tools to scrape down the popcorn safely. The exact method depends on the texture you want afterward and whether asbestos is present.
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Prepare the surface
After removal, we repair any damage to the drywall, sand the ceiling smooth, and get it ready for new texture or a smooth finish.
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Apply new texture (optional)
We offer several texture options based on your preference and the look of the rest of the home.
What to Expect
A typical popcorn ceiling removal project takes 1–4 days depending on the size of the area. Full containment and proper cleanup add time compared to regular painting.
The room will be out of use during the work. Once complete, the ceiling will look much more modern and be much easier to clean and maintain.
Homeowner Tips
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Testing is important in older homes
Homes built before the early 1980s frequently contain asbestos in popcorn texture. Professional testing is the only way to know for sure. Never attempt removal yourself if asbestos is suspected.
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You have options after removal
After the popcorn is gone, you can go with a smooth ceiling or choose a new texture such as:
- Knockdown (very popular in Florida)
- Orange peel
- Light skip trowel
- Completely smooth
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Removal is messy but worth it for most people
The process creates dust and debris during the work, but proper containment keeps the mess contained. The finished result is a much cleaner, more modern-looking ceiling.
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Painting after removal
Most people paint the ceiling after the new texture (or smooth finish) is applied. We can coordinate this as part of the project.
Common Questions
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Do all popcorn ceilings contain asbestos?
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No, but many installed before the early 1980s do. Professional testing is the only way to know for sure.
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Is it illegal to remove popcorn ceilings myself?
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If the material contains asbestos, disturbing it without proper licensing and procedures can violate regulations. It's much safer to have it tested and handled professionally.
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What texture options do I have after removal?
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Popular choices include completely smooth, knockdown, orange peel, or light skip trowel. Knockdown is very common in Florida homes because it hides minor imperfections well.
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Can you just cover the popcorn instead of removing it?
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Yes, skim coating over the existing texture is an option for some people, but removal usually gives a cleaner, more modern result.