Around the 1970s and 1980s, everyone wanted a popcorn ceiling since it was in such demand. Many popcorn ceilings contain bits of sparkle in them that accentuated the boho décor of the time. For example, rattan furniture, hanging macrame tables, and animal print rugs. However, the trend of popcorn ceilings didn’t go on for that long, there were some issues presented by the ceiling texture in the 1990s.
In today’s day, popcorn ceilings are outdated and viewed as drab, dull, and dry. And, now many people try to get rid of the popcorn ceilings in their homes. The cost of popcorn ceiling removal depends on multiple factors such as the number of rooms, square feet of the ceiling, and a few more factors.
What is Popcorn Ceiling?
Popcorn ceilings are also known as “acoustical ceilings” because of the thick texture of the product which absorbs sound waves. Moreover, popcorn ceilings resemble large curds of cottage cheese in simple words. The professionals who built the popcorn ceiling applied the surface with a hopper and a spray gun. Additionally, making it a quick fix for camouflaging ceiling panels.
This is what we mean when we say a popcorn ceiling looks like “cottage cheese”.
Popcorn ceilings were attractive when applied newly and freshly, and they gave the entire room a modern look. Similarly, the texture hid the poor craftsmanship, such as how the drywall panels were hung unevenly or finished with a smoothly taped surface.
It used to take less than an hour to spray the popcorn texture on a standard ceiling when compared to 3 or 4 days to apply multiple coats of drywall. It didn’t take long before it became a headscratcher for homeowners not being able to enjoy a trendy finish and the builders saved lots of money.
Factors in Calculating Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost
No project is identical and when it comes to popcorn ceiling removal projects that also brings up the same case. There are a few factors you need to consider when you’re thinking of the best way to get popcorn ceiling removal. A professional will factor in the size and height of the ceiling and consider the type of texture your ceiling has.
Area
Before a professional gives the homeowner a quote, the first thing you focus on is the estimated area covered. They look at the scope of the project. There are some contractors that will charge you by the square foot of the area for specific services. Moreover, they consider the height of your ceiling and whether any ceiling damage exists that needs to be fixed before removal can start.
Labor
It varies depending on community when it comes to labor. However, homeowners should expect to pay the cost calculated per square foot of ceiling to have a popcorn ceiling removal. The cost of clearing away debris might increase per square foot, and repainting the ceiling could increase the cost per square foot.
Additional Work
You would be in luck if everything goes smoothly without any surprises. However, there are times when there are many surprises during the work of the project. A popcorn ceiling brings you a host of problems. So, when the professionals are in the procedure of removing, there could many surprises along the way. Moreover, this includes discovering that the original drywall panels were not taped properly or finding leaks that need repairing before the new ceiling procedure could be finished. So, additional work means additional charges.