Taping and finishing ceiling drywall seams before texture and paint

Ceiling Texture Updates

Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Fort Lauderdale

Popcorn and acoustic texture removed and refinished smooth or with a modern texture, with asbestos testing considered first on older ceilings.

Give Your Ceilings a Fresh Appearance

Popcorn ceilings are common in older South Florida homes and condominiums. While the textured finish once served a practical purpose, many homeowners now prefer smoother ceilings that are easier to maintain and better suited to contemporary interiors.

We help property owners in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County understand the preparation, removal, and finishing work involved. Older textured coatings may contain asbestos, so appropriate evaluation and testing must happen before the material is disturbed.

Drywall finisher applying joint compound to a wall with a trowel

What Is Involved in Popcorn Ceiling Removal?

A successful ceiling update involves more than removing the visible texture. The underlying surface often needs additional work to achieve a clean finish.

Ceiling Material Assessment

Before removal, we discuss the age and condition of the ceiling and whether testing for asbestos-containing material is appropriate. Suspected or confirmed hazardous materials require qualified handling.

Room Preparation

Ceiling work can create significant dust and debris. Floors, walls, fixtures, and furnishings need appropriate protection before removal or finishing begins.

Texture Removal

Where the material is suitable for ordinary removal, the method depends on the existing coating, paint layers, and condition of the drywall underneath.

Surface Repair

Removing popcorn texture can expose damaged joints, fastener marks, and uneven surfaces. These areas may need patching, taping, or additional compound.

Smooth Ceiling Finishing

A smooth finish often requires skim coating and careful sanding. Strong natural or recessed lighting can make small imperfections more noticeable.

Alternative Ceiling Textures

Not every homeowner wants a perfectly smooth ceiling. We can discuss suitable replacement textures and how they affect the preparation and final appearance.

Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost Factors

Job typeHow it's pricedMain cost factor
Single-room ceilingCustom estimateDepends on ceiling area
Multiple-room removalCustom estimateDepends on total square footage
Smooth finish preparationCustom estimateDepends on surface condition
Additional drywall repairsQuoted separatelyDepends on damage

Costs depend on testing requirements, material condition, ceiling height, protection, and finish level. Hazardous-material testing or abatement is a separate specialist service where required. Estimates are free and itemized in writing.

Drywall contractor finishing a recessed tray ceiling with LED cove lighting

Why Choose Us for Popcorn Ceiling Removal?

Preparation Matters

We consider the room and ceiling conditions before planning removal.

Finish-Focused Work

We explain the additional steps that may be needed for a smooth ceiling.

Safety Considerations

We emphasize appropriate testing and qualified abatement when older materials may contain asbestos.

Contact Us Today for a Free Estimate

Thinking about removing popcorn ceilings? Call (954) 906-2720 or request an estimate for your Broward County property.

Call (954) 906-2720Request a Free Estimate

Free — no obligation

Worker scraping popcorn ceiling texture with plastic sheeting protecting the room

Our Ceiling Update Process

Review the Ceiling

We discuss the age, condition, and intended new finish.

Address Testing Requirements

Appropriate material testing and any required abatement must be completed before ordinary removal.

Protect the Space

We prepare surrounding surfaces and plan dust containment.

Remove and Prepare

Suitable texture is removed or prepared using a method appropriate to the existing surface.

Finish the Ceiling

We address repairs, skim coating, sanding, and the selected finish within the agreed scope.

Popcorn Ceiling Removal FAQ

Does my popcorn ceiling contain asbestos?

You cannot tell by looking. Textures applied before the 1980s are more likely to contain asbestos, and the only reliable answer is a sample tested by an accredited lab. Testing should happen before the ceiling is disturbed, and any abatement must be done by licensed professionals.

How long does popcorn ceiling removal take?

Most rooms take more than one day because the work includes protecting the room, removing the texture, skim coating, and letting compound dry before sanding and priming. Painted popcorn texture usually takes longer to remove.

Can I stay in my home during popcorn ceiling removal?

Usually, yes. The work area is sealed with plastic sheeting, but removal is dusty, so plan to stay out of the rooms being worked on and clear out as much furniture as possible beforehand.

What finish replaces a popcorn ceiling?

Most customers choose a smooth ceiling, which needs a skim coat for a flat, even surface. A light knockdown or orange peel texture is another option and can hide minor imperfections.

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