Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Austin AR: What to Expect, Cost & Process

Popcorn ceilings — once a common feature in mid-century homes — are now one of the most requested removals we handle for homeowners across Austin, AR and surrounding areas. While they were originally added for acoustic benefits and to hide imperfections, today's homeowners see them as outdated, hard to clean, and even a potential health concern.

If you're considering popcorn ceiling removal, this blog breaks down everything you need to know: how it works, how much it costs, and what to expect from start to finish.

What Is a Popcorn Ceiling?

Popcorn ceilings, also called acoustic ceilings or cottage cheese ceilings, are textured ceiling finishes popular from the 1950s to the 1980s. They were applied by spraying a thick texture onto the ceiling, which created a rough, bumpy surface.

While cheap and fast to install, they come with several downsides:

Hard to clean
Tend to trap dust, dirt, and cobwebs
Difficult to paint or repair
Can lower a home's resale value
May contain asbestos in homes built before 1985

Why Homeowners Are Removing Them

Removing popcorn ceilings is more than just a cosmetic upgrade — it’s often part of a larger home improvement plan. Here are the most common reasons our clients choose to remove theirs:

1. Modernize the Home

Smooth ceilings look cleaner, brighter, and more contemporary. It’s one of the easiest ways to update the feel of a space.

2. Prepare for Painting or Remodeling

Popcorn textures make it difficult to repaint or install ceiling fans, lighting fixtures, or crown molding cleanly.

3. Improve Lighting and Room Brightness

Popcorn texture absorbs light and casts shadows, making rooms feel darker. Smooth ceilings reflect more light and open up the space visually.

4. Health and Safety

In older homes, popcorn ceilings may contain asbestos. While not dangerous unless disturbed, removal and encapsulation are often recommended during renovations.

Can Popcorn Ceilings Contain Asbestos?

Yes — especially in homes built before 1985. Asbestos was often used as a fire-retardant in ceiling texture sprays. If your home was built before this date, it’s wise to test the ceiling material before removal.

At Rodney Horton Drywall Specialties Inc., we can refer you to local asbestos testing labs. If asbestos is present, we can advise you on safe next steps, which may include full containment or professional abatement.

How the Popcorn Ceiling Removal Process Works

Here’s what you can expect when hiring our team for popcorn ceiling removal in your home:

Step 1: Inspection and Estimate

We visit your property, assess the ceiling, and determine the square footage. If needed, we recommend testing for asbestos. You’ll receive a detailed written estimate with no hidden costs.

Step 2: Room Prep and Protection

Furniture is removed or covered, floors are protected with plastic sheeting, and HVAC vents are sealed to prevent dust spread.

Step 3: Ceiling Wetting

We spray the ceiling with a light mist of water to soften the texture. This makes removal cleaner and reduces dust.

Step 4: Scraping

Using professional tools, we carefully scrape away the popcorn texture without damaging the underlying drywall.

Step 5: Patching and Smoothing

Once the texture is removed, we inspect the surface for damage. Any gouges, seams, or imperfections are patched, then sanded smooth.

Step 6: Optional Texturing

If you prefer a different finish (orange peel, knockdown, or skip trowel), we can apply it at this stage.

Step 7: Cleanup

We clean the worksite thoroughly, removing all debris and protecting your home throughout the entire process.

Step 8: Painting (Optional)

If desired, we provide interior ceiling painting services as a follow-up to give your ceiling a fully finished look.

Popcorn Ceiling Removal Cost in Austin, AR

The cost to remove a popcorn ceiling depends on several factors:

Size of the room or home
Ceiling height
Whether asbestos testing is required
The current condition of the drywall
Whether you choose a smooth or textured finish afterward

Estimated Range in Austin, AR:
Most projects cost between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot, all labor and prep included.

For example:

A 12x12 room (144 sq ft) may cost between $215–$500
Larger projects (1,000+ sq ft) are priced competitively and often discounted per sq ft

We always provide a clear, written quote — no guesswork or surprise charges.

DIY Popcorn Ceiling Removal: Should You Try It?

While it's possible to remove popcorn ceiling texture yourself, we don’t recommend it for most homeowners. Here's why:

Risk of asbestos if not tested
Very messy and labor-intensive
Easy to damage the ceiling surface underneath
Requires proper protection and containment
No warranty on results if mistakes are made

Hiring a pro ensures a smoother finish, safer process, and less disruption in your home.

FAQs – Popcorn Ceiling Removal

Q: How long does it take to remove popcorn ceilings?
Most rooms take 1 day, but full homes may require 2–4 days depending on size and detail work.

Q: Do you offer ceiling painting after removal?
Yes — we offer painting as an optional follow-up service for a complete, clean look.

Q: Will removing popcorn ceilings increase my home’s value?
In many cases, yes. Homes with smooth ceilings show better, feel more modern, and may sell faster.

Q: Can I keep some rooms with popcorn and remove others?
Absolutely. We’ll only work in the spaces you want updated.

Why Choose Rodney Horton Drywall Specialties Inc.?

We’re not just drywall pros — we’re ceiling specialists trusted by homeowners across Central Arkansas. Here’s why clients call us for popcorn removal:

Locally owned and operated
Honest, flat-rate pricing
Full-service drywall and ceiling repairs
Clean, respectful crews
Owner-led inspections and quality control

We serve Austin, Cabot, Ward, Beebe, Jacksonville, and surrounding areas.

Get a Free Popcorn Ceiling Removal Quote Today

Out with the old — in with smooth, clean ceilings. If your home still has outdated textures, give us a call. We’ll walk you through your options, provide a free quote, and make the process as easy as possible.

Phone: (501) 941-8442
Email: imud4u@yahoo.com
Request an Estimate: austindrywallservices.com

< Older Post