Popcorn ceiling removal can quickly climb in cost if there’s asbestos testing or removal, so it’s important to evaluate the project's short- and long-term payoffs. The short-term benefits are a fresh-looking space and a brighter ceiling, while the long-term benefits kick in when you put your home on the market. Many realtors and new buyers consider popcorn ceilings an outdated look and a necessary home renovation and update. Weighing the time, energy, and cost of removal are all factors that may discourage potential buyers.
from a popcorn ceiling costs about $3 to $7 per square foot. In that case, it may be cheaper to cover it up than to remove it. By comparison, if there is no asbestos, scraping popcorn ceilings costs an average of $1 to $2 per square foot.
Barring any dangerous asbestos, the ceiling’s overall aesthetic is the most common motivator for removal. Popcorn ceiling removal may be advantageous or necessary if the texture is cracking or in serious need of repair, there is a health concern related to asbestos, or the home appears outdated. When possible, tackle this project before moving into your new home. That way, you won’t need to cover or remove your possessions to protect them from dust and falling debris.
Unfortunately, simple popcorn ceiling removal won't be enough to update the look of the home. Once the texture gets scraped off, visible marks, stains, nails, and other flaws may age the ceiling. The best course of action is to retexture it, sand it down, prime it, and paint it in a color that suits the room's style and decor.