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It is often less expensive to cover a popcorn ceiling instead of removing it. Installing drywall costs $1.50 to $3 per square foot, whereas popcorn ceiling removal averages $7 per square foot. Another option may be installing beadboard panels over top, giving your ceiling a fresh and modern look.

Popcorn ceilings have fallen out of popularity for several reasons, though opinions on them can vary. The primary drawbacks include an outdated appearance, difficulty with cleaning and maintenance, and potential health risks, as ceilings installed before the 1990s may contain asbestos. As design trends have shifted toward sleeker, more modern finishes, many homeowners now prefer smooth ceilings for their clean look and easier upkeep. However, popcorn ceilings do offer some benefits, such as excellent acoustic properties for noise reduction and the ability to hide imperfections. Some also appreciate their retro charm or find them to be a cost-effective solution. Ultimately, whether they are "bad" depends on personal preference, safety concerns, and aesthetic goals.

In most cases, it is worth removing popcorn ceilings because they are considered outdated and can make a home more difficult to sell. Buyers typically prefer a smooth, modern finish, so removing the texture can increase a home's value and appeal. The necessity can sometimes depend on the housing market; in a competitive market, buyers may be more willing to overlook minor renovations. The most critical factor is the potential presence of asbestos, which is common in older popcorn ceilings and poses a significant health hazard if the material deteriorates. If you know your ceiling contains asbestos, you are required to disclose this when selling, which can be a major deterrent for buyers. In this situation, it is highly recommended to have a professional remove or encapsulate the ceiling to resolve the issue before it impacts the sale.

If your popcorn ceiling is asbestos-free and you are ready for a new look, painting is an option. As long as there is no flaking or other wear, a new coat of paint might be just the thing to refresh the old ceiling. The best way to paint a popcorn ceiling is to use either a paint sprayer or a thick roller to cover the popcorn texture fully. (Do not forget to dust it off beforehand!)

“Note that if you eventually want to remove the popcorn ceiling, a painted ceiling is a labor-intensive job to remove and will cost more,” says Bob Tschudi. “Once painted, the process of removing the popcorn ceiling requires physical scraping as opposed to a spray-and-scrape approach. It’s very labor-intensive, and thus more costly.”