Homeowners across the country are phasing out dated popcorn and other textured ceilings in favor of smoother, modern finishes. Before you grab a scraper, it helps to know exactly what drives textured ceiling removal cost. At CountBricks, we combine AI-driven estimating, voice-to-quote technology, and seasoned residential crews to give you a clear, reliable price range—often within minutes. This guide breaks down every cost factor and shows how CountBricks can shorten timelines, reduce surprises, and elevate results.
Textured ceiling removal is priced per square foot. Larger rooms obviously increase material disposal and labor hours, but ceiling height and furniture density matter too.
• Standard 8-foot ceilings with easy ladder access fall on the low end.
• Vaulted or tray ceilings often demand scaffolding and extra crew members, raising labor totals.
Some coatings scrape off in sheets, while older acoustical popcorn can cling stubbornly to drywall. If the finish was painted over, add more labor for wet-scrape and sanding.
• Light knockdown texture: quickest removal.
• Multi-layer painted popcorn: highest labor rate.
Homes built before 1980 may have asbestos-containing materials. Regulations require testing and, if positive, professional abatement. CountBricks coordinates certified labs and integrates the results directly into your project estimate.
• Lab sample fee: minimal cost per room.
• Positive result: specialized abatement crew, containment, and disposal fees.
Removal exposes nail pops, tape joints, and occasional drywall gouges. A true cost analysis always includes surface prep plus the chosen final finish—whether that’s smooth Level 5 drywall, skip trowel, or a fresh coat of ceiling-white paint.
• Light skim coat and paint: economical finish.
• High-gloss Level 5 finish: premium labor and materials.
While every project is unique, CountBricks historical data shows these averages for our clients:
• Basic 12’ x 12’ bedroom, no asbestos, smooth repaint: $900 – $1,300
• Open-concept living area, vaulted, repaint: $2,500 – $3,800
• Pre-1980 home with asbestos abatement: $4,000 – $7,500 depending on square footage
All prices include debris bagging, site protection, and final clean-up. Use our instant estimator at CountBricks.com/services to receive region-specific numbers within minutes.
Voice-to-Quote Simplicity: Talk through room dimensions on site with our mobile app. The AI converts your words into detailed line items in real time.
Live Material Pricing: CountBricks pulls ceiling compound, paint, and disposal rates from local suppliers every hour. You never pay outdated material mark-ups.
Dynamic Labor Algorithms: Our software benchmarks labor hours against 5,000+ completed ceiling projects in similar homes, ensuring bids account for true field conditions—not guesswork.
No-Surprise Invoicing: Every variance (for example, finding painted popcorn) triggers an instant recalculation with client approval through the app. Transparency is built-in.
1. AI estimate generated during your walkthrough.
2. Optional asbestos test scheduled and results uploaded to your dashboard.
3. Furnishings covered, floors sealed, HVAC vents masked.
4. Wet-scrape or abatement method executed by certified technicians.
5. Repairs, skim coat, sanding, and dust extraction.
6. Primer and final paint or specialty finish applied.
7. Quality inspection and digital punch-list signed off in the CountBricks app.
• Dumpster permits in tight urban neighborhoods
• Overnight lodging if asbestos containment spans entire living space
• Light fixture or smoke detector re-installation after ceiling is smoothed
• Upgrading attic insulation once old texture is removed and gaps are visible
Our estimators flag these during the initial conversation so you budget accurately from day one.
• Bundle rooms: Mobilizing once for multiple ceilings lowers per-room cost.
• Choose a mid-sheen paint instead of perfect Level 5 if budget is tight.
• Schedule during off-peak seasons; CountBricks offers winter rate incentives.
One-Stop Convenience: From blueprint takeoffs to the final invoice, everything is handled inside CountBricks.
Proven Craftsmanship: View before-and-after photos in our portfolio at CountBricks.com/portfolio.
Clear Communication: You’ll receive daily voice summaries, site photos, and cost trackers directly to your phone.
Ready to reveal a brighter, smoother ceiling? Generate your free AI estimate at CountBricks.com/consultation or call our residential specialists today. With accurate pricing, streamlined scheduling, and top-tier workmanship, CountBricks makes outdated texture disappear—without unpleasant budget surprises.
A recent CountBricks project in Brooklyn showcases the power of precise estimating and efficient field execution. The homeowner wanted three levels of 100-year-old popcorn ceilings removed and replaced with a sleek, modern finish before listing the property.
• Scope: 2,400 sq ft of popcorn removal, minor plaster repair, Level 4 finish, fresh ceiling-white paint
• Initial AI Estimate: Generated during a 15-minute voice walkthrough, $12,850
• Actual Final Invoice: $12,990 (1.1 % variance due to an unanticipated skylight repair)
• Duration: 6 working days, two crews alternating day/night shifts to minimize disruption
• Accurate Forecasting: CountBricks’ live pricing alerted the client to New York disposal fee spikes weeks before work began, letting them lock in lower rates.
• Seamless Change Orders: When the skylight framing was discovered, the app recalculated labor and materials in 34 seconds, generated a digital approval form, and kept the project on schedule.
• Property Value Boost: Post-renovation appraisal showed a $48,000 increase, largely credited to updated ceilings and fresh paint.
• Schedule asbestos testing early—lab turnaround can dictate your timeline.
• Invest in full-room plastic containment; it speeds cleanup and protects flooring.
• Opt for a light, washable paint sheen on ceilings in kitchens or baths to fight humidity.
Whether you own a pre-war brownstone or a mid-century ranch, CountBricks provides transparent textured ceiling removal cost estimates and impeccable workmanship. Explore service options at CountBricks.com/services or speak with a project advisor now.
