Painting Ideas & Tips
  • November 30, 2022
  • Home Renovations

How Long Does Popcorn Ceiling Removal Take?

If your house has a popcorn ceiling, removing that can be a complex process and takes little time. While removing the popcorn ceiling, many situations can come your way that might reduce your work. The removal process is not stressful as long as you know how to deal with a popcorn ceiling. For the removal of the popcorn ceiling, there are several steps to be followed, even if you are doing the process by yourself or hiring a contractor. If you are a homeowner looking to remove the popcorn ceiling in your house, then read on to know how long popcorn ceiling removal take and the cost involved in the process.

How Difficult Is It To Remove Popcorn Ceiling?

Removing the popcorn ceiling can be challenging as many factors come into play. Here are some of the factors that affect popcorn ceiling removal.

1. Age and Quality of finish

The age and finish of the popcorn ceiling are major factors in the removal of the ceiling. If the ceiling is above ten years old with poor finishing, it is easy to remove it as the texture might lose adhesion. On the other side, if the ceiling is decades old, it likely contains asbestos, which might complicate the removal.

2. Paint on Popcorn Ceiling

Removing the painted popcorn ceiling might be challenging as the paint forms a layer over the ceiling. The layer over the popcorn ceiling makes the scraping process more difficult and time-consuming. To make the work easier, you should dampen the ceiling before starting the removal process.

3. Asbestos

Popcorn ceiling contains asbestos, which harms humans and makes the removal process a bit difficult. If you are planning to remove the popcorn ceiling yourself and discover it has asbestos, then it is always advised to contact an expert. An experienced popcorn ceiling removal company will take the necessary precautions while conducting the whole process.

Most Used Methods for Removal

1. Sanding

In recent years sanding process is gaining popularity as the method uses machine drywall sanders. Drywall sanders have long enough arms to reach the ceiling, and some have a dust extraction system installed, making cleanup a breeze. The sanding process might be less effective if the ceiling is painted.

2. Scrape

Using a scrape is another effective method for removing the popcorn ceiling for your house. If the ceiling is painted, spray some water and let it sit for 15 minutes. Now you can use scrape to remove the popcorn ceiling, and if you are still having trouble removing the ceiling, you need to soak it again for another 15 minutes to make the process much easier.

Is There A Faster Option?

For popcorn ceiling removal, scraping is seen as the most effective method, but at the same time, a stretch ceiling system can also be effective. A stretch ceiling system forms a cover over the existing popcorn ceiling, thus providing an all-in-one finish. This method can safely encapsulate your ceilings if your popcorn ceiling contains asbestos. If you plan to have a stretch ceiling on your popcorn ceiling, you need to take the help of an experienced crew of installation professionals like Executive Touch Painters and Home Renovators who can complete the work in just one day.

How Much Does It Cost To Remove Popcorn Ceiling?

While there are some methods for popcorn ceiling removal, the cost incurred for removal depends on the process chosen by you. The cost includes the machine cost, equipment cost, and labour cost. The cost might increase if you retire the ceiling after popcorn removal. If you do not want to bear the expense of labour, you can do the process yourself, but it is always better to take the help of a professional.

Conclusion

Removing the popcorn ceiling is only sometimes a right or wrong decision, but it must be done at the right time. Popcorn ceiling removal can always be challenging, costing a few hundred dollars. Even though some homeowners try to do the process alone, it is not recommended to do the work as there is a need for professional hands. If you are a homeowner having problems with a popcorn ceiling and planning to remove it, you need to contact a ceiling expert to take the necessary advice. We have over 30 years of experience handling all painting and renovation projects at Executive Touch Painters. Contact us for more details.