The Complete Guide to Popcorn Ceiling Removal in 2026

Popcorn ceilings, also known as acoustic or textured ceilings, were popular from the 1950s through the 1980s. While they served their purpose of hiding imperfections and providing soundproofing, modern homeowners increasingly view them as outdated and difficult to maintain.

If you're considering removing your popcorn ceiling, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Looking for a local team? We do popcorn ceiling removal in Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, Mississauga, Milton, and Grimsby.

Why Remove Popcorn Ceilings?

1. Modernize Your Home

Smooth ceilings are the standard in modern homes. Removing popcorn texture instantly updates your space and can increase your home's resale value by 5-10%.

2. Health and Safety Concerns

Popcorn ceilings installed before 1980 may contain asbestos, a hazardous material linked to serious health issues. Even asbestos-free popcorn ceilings collect dust, allergens, and are difficult to clean.

3. Improved Lighting

Smooth ceilings reflect light better, making rooms appear brighter and more spacious.

4. Easier Maintenance

Unlike textured ceilings, smooth ceilings are easy to clean, paint, and repair.

Asbestos Testing: The Critical First Step

Before you start any popcorn ceiling removal project, you must test for asbestos if your home was built before 1990.

How to Test for Asbestos:

1. Hire a certified inspector ($200-$800)
2. Mail-in DIY test kits ($40-$100)
3. Never disturb the ceiling before testing

If asbestos is present, hire certified professionals immediately. DIY removal of asbestos-containing materials is illegal in most areas and extremely dangerous.

Professional tip: At EPF Pro Services, we always recommend professional testing and removal when dealing with older homes. Your health isn't worth the risk.

Popcorn Ceiling Removal Methods

Method 1: Wet Scraping (Most Common)

Best for: Non-painted popcorn ceilings without asbestos

Process:

1. Prepare the room (remove furniture, cover floors)
2. Spray ceiling with water mixed with fabric softener
3. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes
4. Scrape with a wide drywall knife
5. Sand smooth and prime

Time: 1-2 days for average bedroom Cost: $1-$3 per sq ft (DIY), $2-$4 per sq ft (professional)

Method 2: Dry Scraping with HEPA Filtration

Best for: Painted popcorn ceilings (when wet scraping won't work)

Process:

1. Set up HEPA filtration system
2. Carefully scrape dry texture
3. Sand and feather edges
4. Apply joint compound for smoothness
5. Prime and paint

Time: 2-3 days for average bedroom Cost: $3-$6 per sq ft (professional recommended)

Method 3: Cover with New Drywall

Best for: Severely damaged ceilings or when asbestos is present

Process:

1. Install thin drywall panels over existing ceiling
2. Tape and mud seams
3. Sand smooth
4. Prime and paint

Time: 2-4 days Cost: $4-$7 per sq ft

DIY vs Professional Removal: What You Need to Know

DIY Popcorn Ceiling Removal

Pros:

• Cost savings on labor ($1-2 per sq ft)
• Complete control over timeline
• Satisfaction of completing project yourself

Cons:

• Extremely messy and labor-intensive
• Risk of ceiling damage requiring expensive repairs
• Health risks if proper safety equipment not used
• Time-consuming (3-5x longer than professionals)
• No warranty on work

Professional Removal

Pros:

• Expert results with smooth finish
• Proper dust containment (HEPA filtration)
• Asbestos testing and safe handling
• Complete cleanup included
• Warranty on workmanship
• 3-5x faster completion

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost

Our recommendation: Unless you have experience with ceiling work, professional removal is worth the investment. At EPF Pro Services, we've completed over 700 ceiling projects with dust-free HEPA systems and 3-year warranties.

Cost Breakdown: What to Expect

DIY Costs (500 sq ft ceiling):

• Supplies & equipment: $100-$300
• Asbestos testing: $40-$100
• Your time: 20-30 hours
• Total: $140-$400 + your labor

Professional Costs (500 sq ft ceiling):

• Basic removal: $1,000-$1,500
• Painted popcorn: $1,500-$2,500
• Asbestos removal: $3,000-$8,000
• Includes: Testing, removal, smoothing, priming
• Total: $1,000-$2,500 (asbestos-free)

Safety Equipment Required

If attempting DIY removal, you MUST have:

1. N95 or P100 respirator mask
2. Safety goggles
3. Protective coveralls
4. Drop cloths and plastic sheeting
5. HEPA-filtered shop vacuum
6. Proper ventilation

The Professional Removal Process

At EPF Pro Services, our popcorn ceiling removal follows this proven process:

1. Initial Inspection & Testing (Day 1)

• Comprehensive ceiling assessment
• Asbestos testing if needed
• Moisture and damage inspection
• Detailed quote with timeline

2. Room Preparation (Day 1-2)

• Complete room protection
• Furniture removal or covering
• HEPA air filtration setup
• Doorway containment

3. Removal (Day 2-3)

• Water application (if suitable)
• Careful scraping with specialized tools
• Continuous HEPA filtration
• Immediate debris removal

4. Smoothing & Repair (Day 3-4)

• Joint compound application
• Drywall repair if needed
• Multiple sanding passes
• Dust-free HEPA sanding

5. Finishing (Day 4-5)

• Prime with high-quality sealer
• Final inspection
• Complete cleanup
• Optional painting services

6. Final Walkthrough

• Quality check
• 3-year warranty documentation
• Maintenance tips

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping Asbestos Testing

Never assume your ceiling is safe. Testing costs $40-$100 and could save your life.

2. Not Protecting the Room Properly

Popcorn removal creates massive amounts of dust. Without proper containment, you'll find dust throughout your entire home for months.

3. Using Wrong Tools

Garden sprayers and wide drywall knives are essential. Using the wrong tools damages drywall underneath.

4. Over-Wetting the Ceiling

Too much water damages drywall. Apply just enough to soften the texture.

5. Rushing the Process

Smooth ceilings require patience. Rushing leads to gouges, tears, and expensive repairs.

6. Ignoring Necessary Repairs

After removal, address any drywall damage before priming. Smooth ceilings reveal every imperfection.

After Removal: What's Next?

Once your popcorn ceiling is removed, you have several finishing options:

Option 1: Smooth Painted Finish (Most Popular)

• Prime with PVA primer
• Apply two coats quality ceiling paint
• Result: Clean, modern look

Option 2: Knockdown Texture

• Subtle texture that's easier to maintain than popcorn
• Hides minor imperfections
• Modern appearance

Option 3: Skip Trowel or Other Decorative Finishes

• Adds character and depth
• Requires experienced professionals
• Higher cost but unique result

Regional Considerations

Burlington, Oakville & Hamilton Area

Ontario building codes require:

• Asbestos testing for pre-1990 homes
• Proper disposal of asbestos materials
• Licensed contractors for asbestos removal

Local resources:

• City of Burlington Building Department
• Hamilton Building Permits
• Ontario Asbestos Regulations

Climate Factors

Ontario's humidity variations can affect removal:

• Best seasons: Late spring, early fall
• Avoid winter (heating affects drying)
• Summer humidity extends drying times

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does popcorn ceiling removal take?

• DIY: 3-7 days for average bedroom
• Professional: 1-3 days complete
• Whole house: 1-2 weeks professional

Can I paint over popcorn ceiling instead?

Yes, but it's a temporary solution. Painted popcorn:

• Still looks outdated
• Harder to remove later
• Doesn't address health concerns
• Collects dust and dirt

Is popcorn ceiling removal messy?

Extremely messy without proper equipment. Professional services use:

• HEPA air filtration
• Plastic containment barriers
• Dust-controlled tools
• Professional cleanup

Will removing popcorn ceiling damage my ceiling?

When done correctly, no. However:

• DIY attempts often damage drywall
• Painted popcorn increases damage risk
• Old, poorly installed drywall may need replacement
• Professional removal minimizes risk

How much does professional removal cost?

Ontario pricing (2025):

• Burlington/Oakville: $2-4 per sq ft
• Hamilton: $1.50-3.50 per sq ft
• Asbestos removal: $3-8 per sq ft
• Get accurate quote

Why Choose EPF Pro Services

With over 700 completed popcorn ceiling projects in Burlington, Oakville, and Hamilton, we're the region's trusted experts.

Our Advantages:

• Dust-Free HEPA Systems - No mess throughout home
• Asbestos Certified - Safe testing and removal
• 3-Year Warranty - Guaranteed smooth finish
• Licensed & Insured - Complete peace of mind
• Same-Day Quotes - Fast, transparent pricing
• 700+ Projects - Proven expertise

Service Areas:

Burlington | Oakville | Hamilton | Mississauga | Milton | Grimsby | Stoney Creek

Ready to Transform Your Ceilings?

Don't let outdated popcorn ceilings hold back your home's potential. Whether you're planning to sell or simply want a modern update, professional removal delivers lasting results.

Get your free quote today:

• Call: (289) 427-5478
• Email: [email protected]
• Visit: popcornceilingremovalburlington.ca

Special offer: Mention this blog post for $100 off projects over 1,000 sq ft.

Related Services

• Drywall Repair & Installation
• Interior Painting
• Ceiling Texture Repair

Further Reading

• Drywall Repair: Complete Guide
• How to Choose a Contractor
• Home Renovation ROI Guide

About the Author: Alex has over 15 years of experience in popcorn ceiling removal and drywall finishing. As project manager at EPF Pro Services, he's overseen 700+ successful ceiling transformations in the Burlington and Hamilton areas.