Popcorn Ceiling Removal: What to Expect
Timeline, dust control, asbestos testing, and cost for removing textured ceilings in older Atlanta homes.
Popcorn ceilings instantly date a home. Removing them is one of the highest-impact interior upgrades you can make.
Test first if the home predates 1980
Textured ceilings installed before the early 1980s may contain asbestos. Testing is inexpensive and fast, and it determines whether the work is a standard removal or an abatement project.
The process
- 1Full containment: floors, walls, and openings sealed in plastic.
- 2Light misting to soften the texture.
- 3Careful scraping without gouging the drywall.
- 4Skim coat and sand to a smooth finish.
- 5Prime, then two coats of ceiling paint.
- 6Complete cleanup and dust remediation.
Timeline
A single room takes 1–2 days. A full main floor typically runs 3–5 days including cure time between skim coats.
Cost
Expect $2–$5 per square foot in metro Atlanta depending on ceiling height, texture thickness, and how much skim coating the drywall needs.
Alternatives
If the ceiling drywall is in rough shape, covering with new 1/4-inch drywall can be more economical than extensive skim coating. We'll tell you which makes sense during the estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
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