Everything You Need to Know About Popcorn Ceiling Removal

How to Remove & Upgrade Your Home’s Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings, also known as acoustic ceilings, are common in many homes built before the 1980s. Popcorn ceilings have a characteristic “bumpy” texture created by spraying the ceiling with a Styrofoam-like material that commonly contains asbestos fibers. 

For many homeowners, popcorn ceilings are seen as an outdated, unattractive feature that detracts from the beauty of their home. Whether you've made up your mind and are ready to handle your popcorn removal or have been on the fence about fully committing, there are a few things to consider about popcorn ceiling removal. 

Follow this useful guide created by the pros at Five Star Painting of Overland Park to make sure you're fully informed about popcorn ceiling removal and what to expect from the process: 

Do I Have a Popcorn Ceiling?

To determine if you have a popcorn ceiling, look closely at your ceiling and see if it has any bumpy texture or patterns. You can also use a flashlight to check for an irregularly textured surface or an unevenness in the texture if you’re unsure. 

Should I Worry About Asbestos If I Have a Popcorn Ceiling?

While some popcorn ceilings have asbestos, not all do. This is because asbestos was linked to serious health problems, including cancer, and was banned in 1978. So, if your home was built after this time, your popcorn ceiling is unlikely to contain asbestos. 

However, it’s always better to be safe than sorry and have an inspection done by a qualified inspector if that's your main concern. 

Reasons Why You Should Remove a Popcorn Ceiling

Whether your popcorn ceilings were crafted in the 70s or more recently, removing them is a smart move. Here are some reasons why: 

• Remove the Threat of Asbestos – Even if your home was built after the laws implemented by the EPA, it's best to remove any popcorn ceiling for safety.
• Modernize Your Home – Removing popcorn ceilings will give any home an instant update that doesn't break the bank.
• Increase Home Value – Popcorn ceilings have been outdated for a while. Removing them can help increase the value of your home.
• Improve Indoor Lighting – One of the downsides of popcorn ceilings is that they absorb natural lighting, casting shadows and creating darkness. Removing popcorn ceilings will give you smooth surfaces and a brighter room!
• Keep Your Ceiling Clean – Popcorn ceilings are notoriously difficult to clean. The texture attracts dust, cobwebs, and other buildups that can be hard to remove. Removing them can help keep your ceilings looking clean. 

Why You Should Skip Do-It-Yourself Popcorn Ceiling Removal

While it may be tempting to take on a do-it-yourself popcorn ceiling removal project, we recommend hiring a professional. Why? Asbestos. 

Asbestos does the most harm when it is disturbed and inhaled. If you don't know what kind of ceiling texture you have, it's best to leave it to the trained professionals to safely remove popcorn ceilings. They will use the proper equipment and clothing to protect against airborne particles that could contain asbestos. 

How Five Star Painting Removes Popcorn Ceilings

Here at Five Star Painting of Overland Park, we understand the importance of executing popcorn ceiling removal with utmost precision and attention to detail. That is why when you turn to us for your project, our experienced residential professionals will take their time to keep your environment safe and bring your vision to life! 

We modify every step of the process based on what type of finish was originally applied and what kind will be used in its place – all while listening closely to each customer’s needs. 

How Long Does Popcorn Ceiling Removal Take?

While you may expect a major remodel to take a few weeks or even a month, popcorn ceiling removal is actually a fairly quick process (and proves to be one of the fastest ways to update any room). A professional popcorn ceiling removal will only take a few days, including adding a smooth finish to the ceiling and cleaning up. 

Cost of Popcorn Ceiling Removal

The cost of popcorn ceiling removal can vary greatly depending on the size and height of your ceilings, as well as other factors such as ease of access and asbestos abatement fees. Five Star Painting of Overland Park offers free estimates to help you better understand the cost associated with your popcorn ceiling removal. 

Types of Replacement Ceiling Finishes

After your popcorn ceiling is removed, you probably want something to replace it. While you may want to choose a smooth finish for your ceiling, there are endless options to choose from. Many of these finishes are designed to add texture, color, and light reflection to your ceiling. These include: 

• Textured paint
• Knockdown texture
• Ceiling tiles 

Regardless of your final choice, the options are aplenty. Five Star Painting of Overland Park will be there to help you every step of the way and ensure a five star finish! 

It's Time for Your Popcorn Ceiling to Go – With Our Help

When it's time to add value, modernize your space and benefit from the luxuries of a newly finished ceiling – it's time to say goodbye to those popcorn ceilings. Removing them is an investment that will significantly improve your home in numerous ways! 

At Five Star Painting of Overland Park, our skilled professionals are trained and experienced in safely removing popcorn ceilings and can help you choose the right finish for your ceilings that best fits your home’s style. 

Need a popcorn ceiling removal estimate? Contact us today and get started on transforming your ceiling.