Contractor Budget Kit
Guides
Browse tools

POPCORN CEILING REMOVAL

Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost Calculator

Estimate popcorn ceiling texture removal and resurfacing cost.

JOB INPUTS

Enter your numbers

Loading saved values

Ceiling area in sq ft

sq ft
Ceiling area in sq ft

Scraping and cleanup

$
Scraping and cleanup

Skim coat, sand and paint

$
Skim coat, sand and paint
Results update automatically
CALCULATED RESULTUSD
Removal cost$2,000.00
Per sq ft total$4.00
Texture removal$1,250.00
Resurface$750.00
Total$2,000.00
FORMULA USED500 × $2.50 + 500 × $1.50 = $2,000.00

HOW TO USE IT

How to use the Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost Calculator

  1. 1

    Enter the ceiling area.

  2. 2

    Set the removal price per sq ft.

  3. 3

    Add resurfacing per sq ft.

  4. 4

    Review the total cost.

THE MATH

Popcorn removal formula

Cost = area × (removal + resurface)

Removal covers scraping and cleanup. Resurfacing (skim coat, sand and paint) brings the ceiling back to smooth.

PRACTICAL EXAMPLE

A 500 sq ft ceiling

500 × ($2.50 + $1.50) = 500 × $4 = $2,000.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What does popcorn ceiling removal cost in 2026?

Removal alone runs $1–$6 per sq ft (painted texture costs more); with smooth resurfacing and paint, expect $3–$8 per sq ft total.

Is asbestos a concern?

Yes — popcorn installed before the 1980s can contain asbestos. Test first; abatement is a licensed, expensive process.