Popcorn Ceiling

Popcorn ceiling refers to that bumpy, textured finish you'll find in many homes built before the 1990s. Whether you're looking to remove it for a cleaner look, repair damaged sections, or test for asbestos before renovation, understanding your options matters. From scraping techniques to skim coating alternatives, Angi connects you with pros who can help transform your ceilings safely and efficiently.
Popcorn Ceiling Service Articles and Advice
Mariel Loveland  •  Apr 10, 2026
Does Removing a Popcorn Ceiling Increase Home Value?
Textured ceilings have long fallen out of fashion, but does removing a popcorn ceiling increase home value? The ROI depends on several factors.
Taylor Sansano  •  Apr 10, 2026
What Is a Popcorn Ceiling? Pros, Cons, and Removal Cost
A textured, or “popcorn”, ceiling was once a popular home feature. Read on to learn about what a popcorn ceiling is and why it has mostly gone out of fashion.
Kyle Schurman  •  Apr 7, 2026
How to Tell If a Popcorn Ceiling Has Asbestos
Learning how to tell if a popcorn ceiling has asbestos might involve looking for clues. However, the most accurate option is to use a kit for a physical test.
Allie Ogletree  •  Apr 5, 2026
How to Remove a Popcorn Ceiling in 8 Steps
Removing popcorn ceiling requires skills, patience, and safety measures. Use this guide on how to remove popcorn ceiling to get started on your project.
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Apr 4, 2026
How to Repair a Popcorn Ceiling Like a Pro
If you are wondering how to repair a popcorn ceiling, this guide will walk you through every step of the process from start to finish.
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Apr 4, 2026
6 Ways to Cover a Popcorn Ceiling Without Removing It
If you have a popcorn ceiling and are ready for a new look, these six ways to cover a popcorn ceiling can give you some options.
C.E. Larusso  •  Mar 19, 2026
Who Should You Hire to Remove a Popcorn Ceiling?
Wondering who you should hire to remove an ugly popcorn ceiling? We’ve got you covered with the best pros for the job, and whether to DIY this project.
Tyler Lacoma  •  Mar 19, 2026
7 Popcorn Ceiling Questions You Need to Ask About Application, Removal, or Cleaning
Many homeowners want to remove popcorn ceilings, but you and your pro will need to discuss a few key popcorn ceiling questions first.
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Common Popcorn Ceiling Service Questions

No, not all popcorn ceilings have asbestos, but a vast majority do. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned its use in 1973, although it still may have been used up through the early ‘90s. But, in general, homes built or remodeled before the early ‘80s likely utilized materials with asbestos. That being said, a professional test is the only way to determine for sure.

Because of the nature of the texture, it's common for the popcorn texture to loosen while painting. Popcorn ceilings are delicate, and using a heavy hand with a roller or applying overly wet paint can loosen the texture. To avoid a mess, handle the material gently with a roller or brush. It's also smart to test a small area first, and if the texture starts coming off, the ceiling may need repairs or sealing before painting.

Priming a popcorn ceiling before painting is a good idea, especially if the ceiling is stained, discolored, or has never been painted. Interior paint primer helps seal the surface, preventing stains from bleeding through and allowing the paint to adhere better. Use a stain-blocking, water-based primer for best results.

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.

Because of the danger of inhaling asbestos fibers, figuring out through testing whether your popcorn ceiling contains asbestos is definitely worth it. If the popcorn ceiling texture has asbestos, remove it as soon as possible to keep your family safe. Any home built in or before the 1980s that has popcorn ceilings could have asbestos, necessitating testing. Asbestos carries several health risks for people who inhale it, including the increased chance of developing lung cancer in the future.