December 2, 2025
A popcorn ceiling removal estimate usually includes labor, surface preparation, materials, repair allowances, project conditions, and cleanup. Knowing what goes into a popcorn ceiling removal estimate helps you understand exactly what you are paying for and what to expect. Below is a friendly walk through of typical estimate items, how most contractors approach the work, and how Pacione Painting uses a safer, cleaner method that avoids the mess and risks of water based removal. What A Popcorn Ceiling Removal Estimate Usually Covers Labor for Popcorn Ceiling Removal Labor makes up most of the estimate. This typically includes: • Safely removing the textured material • Protecting floors, walls, and furniture • Working patiently around vents, lights, and fixtures • Ensuring even removal without damaging the ceiling surface Surface Preparation Once the popcorn texture is removed, the ceiling often needs fine tuning. Estimates usually include: • Skim coating to smooth the surface • Light sanding • Priming to prepare the ceiling for paint Materials and Supplies Contractors list the tools and protective materials needed for the job, such as: • Protective coverings • Scrapers or removal tools • Sanding supplies • Primer and basic prep products Repair Allowances Popcorn texture often hides imperfections. Estimates usually include a small allowance for minor repairs such as: • Hairline cracks • Small dents or nail pops • Uneven areas Larger or unexpected repairs are commonly itemized separately so homeowners know exactly what is involved. Project Conditions That Affect Pricing You might also see notes about details that influence cost, including: • Ceiling height • Room size • Texture thickness • Whether furniture must be moved • Ceiling material, such as drywall or older plaster Cleanup and Disposal Popcorn removal can get messy, so cleanup is normally part of the estimate. This often includes: • Collecting and disposing of debris • Vacuuming or sweeping • Removing protective coverings How Most Painting Contractors Estimate Popcorn Ceiling Removal Many contractors rely on the traditional method of wetting the popcorn texture to soften it before scraping. While it works, it creates several concerns for homeowners: • Wet popcorn tends to fall in heavy clumps that splatter across walls and baseboards • Excess water can soak into ceilings and introduce moisture that may lead to mold • Spraying water near ceiling lights or high wall outlets makes some homeowners uneasy • Painted popcorn often resists water, which leads to an even messier scraping process Because of these issues, homeowners often look for cleaner, safer alternatives. How Pacione Painting Removes Popcorn Ceilings Pacione Painting does not use water as their primary method for popcorn ceiling removal. Instead, they use a Festool dust extractor system that removes the popcorn texture dry. This method offers several important benefits: • No soaking the ceiling with water • No wet popcorn splattering across floors and walls • No risk of trapping moisture inside plaster or drywall • No spraying water near electrical fixtures • Outstanding performance on unpainted popcorn, which can often be removed cleanly and efficiently The result is a cleaner, safer, and more comfortable experience for homeowners who want to avoid the mess and moisture concerns of traditional popcorn ceiling removal. Pacione Painting also provides interior painting, cabinet refinishing, popcorn ceiling removal, wallpaper application and removal, deck staining, epoxy floor coatings, and more. Setting Realistic Expectations About the Final Ceiling Surface Pacione Painting focuses on giving homeowners significant, noticeable improvement. However, popcorn ceilings often cover a wide range of hidden issues such as: • Seventy year old plaster • Builder shortcuts • Poorly taped seams • Uneven or patched drywall Because of these factors, not every ceiling can achieve a perfectly smooth finish. After removal, Pacione Painting applies a full coat of primer to seal the ceiling and reveal any remaining imperfections. From there, they complete repairs to achieve as clean and even a finish as the underlying ceiling allows. The result is a dramatic improvement, but not always perfection, especially in older homes or homes with construction flaws hidden under the texture. Homeowners appreciate the honesty and transparency Pacione Painting brings to this part of the process. Why Pacione Painting’s Estimate Style Benefits Homeowners Pacione Painting ’s method stands out for several reasons: • Cleaner removal with less mess. The Festool dust extractor keeps fallout under control. • No moisture concerns. Their dry removal method avoids mold risk and protects older plaster. • Safer around electrical fixtures. No spraying water near lights or outlets. • Clear expectations about the final finish. Homeowners see what is achievable based on their ceiling’s condition. • Thoughtful preparation and communication. Their team explains each step so there are no surprises. Service Areas Pacione Painting Serves Pacione Painting proudly serves homeowners throughout Woodbury, NJ; Philadelphia, PA; Mullica Hill, NJ; Cherry Hill, NJ; Voorhees, NJ; West Deptford, NJ; Westville, NJ; Woodbury Heights, NJ; Wenonah, NJ; Collingswood, NJ; Haddonfield, NJ; Marlton, NJ; Morristown, NJ; Ocean City, NJ; and Hammonton, NJ. Local Considerations for Popcorn Ceiling Removal in These Areas Many homes in Woodbury, Haddonfield, Collingswood, and Marlton have older plaster ceilings that react differently to texture removal. Coastal properties near Ocean City often deal with humidity related issues that affect how popcorn texture was originally applied. Pacione Painting understands these regional differences and adjusts their estimate and approach accordingly. Ready to Refresh Your Ceilings? Call Pacione Painting at (856) 381 7990 to schedule a free consultation, today! Pacione Painting delivers clean, smooth, professionally finished ceilings along with clear, honest estimates for homeowners throughout South Jersey and the Philadelphia area. Here are some other questions we’re frequently asked about popcorn ceiling removal: Q: How long does popcorn ceiling removal usually take? A: Most projects take one to three days depending on ceiling height, texture thickness, and room size. Q: Do you use water to remove popcorn ceilings? A: No. Pacione Painting uses a dry removal method with a Festool dust extractor for a cleaner and safer process. Q: Will my ceilings be completely smooth afterward? A: Your ceilings will be significantly improved, but perfection is not always realistic on older plaster or poorly constructed ceilings. Pacione Painting will prime and repair the surface to create the best finish possible. Q: Is popcorn ceiling removal messy? A: Any removal creates dust, but the Festool system greatly reduces mess and keeps cleanup manageable. Q: Can you paint the ceilings right after removal? A: Yes. Once the ceiling has been primed and repaired, painting can begin. Q: What makes some popcorn ceilings harder to remove? A: Thick texture, paint applied over the popcorn, and older plaster ceilings can extend the removal time.