Understanding Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings also known as acoustic or textured ceilings were once a popular way to hide imperfections and improve sound absorption. But today, homeowners across South Florida are removing them to modernize their spaces, increase property value, and eliminate potential health concerns such as asbestos or dust buildup.
If you’re wondering how much popcorn ceiling removal costs per square foot, or whether it’s worth hiring professionals, this guide will explain everything you need to know.
Average Cost to Remove Popcorn Ceiling
On average, popcorn ceiling removal costs between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot in South Florida. The exact price depends on several factors, including ceiling size, texture thickness, accessibility, and whether the ceiling contains asbestos.
| Project Size | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 500 sq. ft. | $850 – $1,950 |
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $1,700 – $3,500 |
| 2,000 sq. ft. | $3,000 – $7,000 |
Get in Touch with Us
Sunshine Painting Contractors offers competitive pricing and transparent quotes for all ceiling texture removal projects throughout Broward County, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade.
– Factors That Affect the Cost
Several elements can impact the overall cost of your popcorn ceiling removal project:
Ceiling Condition – Damaged or painted-over ceilings require additional prep work.
Asbestos Testing – Homes built before 1980 may need asbestos testing, which adds $100–$300.
Ceiling Height – High ceilings take longer to reach and finish.
Repairs & Finishing – After removal, the surface may need sanding, drywall repair, and a new coat of paint.
Room Accessibility – Furniture removal and tight spaces can slightly increase labor time.
The Popcorn Ceiling Removal Process
At Sunshine Painting Contractors, our licensed professionals follow a detailed and efficient process to ensure a smooth finish:
Preparation & Protection – We carefully cover floors, walls, and fixtures to prevent dust and debris from spreading.
Softening & Scraping – Using a specialized solution, we soften the texture before gently scraping it away.
Surface Smoothing-The ceiling is sanded and inspected for any imperfections.
Repairs & Skim Coating – We repair cracks, joints, and uneven areas for a perfectly flat surface.
Priming & Painting – Finally, we apply high-quality primer and paint, giving your ceiling a fresh, modern look.
Why Remove Popcorn Ceilings?
Modernize Your Home – Smooth ceilings instantly make your home look newer and brighter.
Increase Home Value – Buyers prefer updated, clean finishes.
Reduce Dust & Allergens – Popcorn texture traps dust, making cleaning difficult.
Better Lighting– Flat ceilings reflect light more evenly throughout your room.
Popcorn Ceiling Removal vs. Covering
While removal is the most popular option, some homeowners choose to cover their popcorn ceilings with new drywall or ceiling planks. This method can cost between $3 and $6 per square foot but avoids dealing directly with asbestos. Our team can help you decide the best option for your home.
Local Expertise You Can Trust
Sunshine Painting Contractors has been proudly serving South Florida homeowners for over 20 years, offering expert painting and ceiling services that transform living spaces. Whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano Beach, Weston, or Boca Raton, our team delivers flawless results on time and within budget.
We specialize in:
Interior and exterior painting
Drywall and wall repair
Wallpaper removal service
Residential and commercial painting
Get Your Free Estimate Today
Ready to give your home a cleaner, more modern ceiling?
Contact Sunshine Painting Contractors today for a free quote on popcorn ceiling removal and painting services.
Call (954) 945-7246
Visit SunshinePaintingContractors.com
FAQ – Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Miami, Broward South Florida
1. How messy is popcorn ceiling removal?
Popcorn ceiling removal can be messy if not done properly. At Sunshine Painting Contractors, we use dust-control tools, cover all furniture, and seal off areas to contain debris. After scraping, we clean, sand, and vacuum so your home is spotless before we leave.
2. What’s the best way to know if my ceiling has asbestos?
Homes built before 1980 may contain asbestos in textured coatings. We recommend professional asbestos testing before removal. It’s a quick process, and if asbestos is found, our team follows all EPA safety standards for containment and removal.
3. Can I paint over a popcorn ceiling instead of removing it?
Yes, you can paint over it, but removal is usually the better long-term choice. Painting only hides discoloration—it doesn’t fix cracking, sagging, or dust buildup. Removing the texture gives your home a cleaner, modern look and increases property value.
4. How long does it take to remove popcorn ceiling in an average home?
Most residential projects take 1 to 3 days, depending on ceiling size and condition. A single room can often be completed in one day, while an entire house might take a bit longer.
5. What kind of finish do you apply after removing the texture?
We typically recommend a smooth flat or eggshell finish for ceilings. Our painters use high-quality primers and ceiling paints designed for humidity resistance—perfect for South Florida’s climate.
6. Is it safe to stay in my home during the popcorn ceiling removal process?
Yes. Most homeowners stay in their homes while we work. Our process is clean, contained, and safe. However, if asbestos is present, we recommend vacating the area until removal and testing are complete.
7. How should I prepare my home before you arrive?
You can help by removing fragile items, electronics, or valuables from the room. We’ll handle the rest—covering furniture, sealing vents, and ensuring total protection of your floors and walls.
8. Can Sunshine Painting Contractors handle ceiling repainting too?
Absolutely. We provide complete ceiling refinishing services, including skim coating, priming, and painting. Many clients choose to repaint walls or trims at the same time for a fresh, cohesive look.
9. Does popcorn ceiling removal add value to my home?
Yes, it can increase your home’s resale value. Buyers often view popcorn ceilings as outdated, so removal is a cost-effective way to modernize your home and attract higher offers.
10. What cities in South Florida do you serve?
We proudly serve homeowners and businesses across Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Weston, Plantation, Boca Raton, and Pompano Beach.
If you’re in Broward or Palm Beach County, we’re your local popcorn ceiling removal experts.
