How Much Does Popcorn Ceiling Removal & Painting Cost in Sacramento, CA? (2026)
Average Cost
$1,999–$3,471
Materials
$527–$1,047
Labor
$1,035–$1,665
Popcorn (acoustic) ceiling removal modernizes any room and eliminates a dust-trapping, difficult-to-clean surface. This estimate covers protecting floors and walls, wetting and scraping the texture, skim-coating with joint compound for a smooth finish, sanding, priming, and painting. Ceilings in homes built before 1980 may contain asbestos and require testing before work begins. Pricing per room (average 12×12 room).
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Materials Included
Labor
Materials
$527–$1,047
Labor
$1,035–$1,665
Markup
$437–$759
Estimated Total Cost
$1,999 – $3,471
$666–$1,157 per unit
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This is an estimate. Get a precise, no-obligation quote from licensed contractors.
California Building Code
California requires asbestos testing before disturbing popcorn ceilings in homes built before 1980. Asbestos removal must be performed by a licensed DOSH-registered abatement contractor.
Project Timeline
Protection & Testing
0.5 dayCover floors and walls with plastic. For pre-1980 homes, collect a sample for asbestos testing (results in 1–3 days). Remove light fixtures.
Texture Removal
1 day per roomSpray the ceiling with water to soften the texture, scrape with wide drywall knives, and remove all loose material.
Skim Coat & Sanding
1–2 days per roomApply one or two thin skim coats of joint compound to create a smooth, flat surface. Sand with 150-grit between coats.
Priming & Painting
1 day per roomApply drywall primer to seal the skim coat, then roll on two coats of flat ceiling paint. Reinstall light fixtures.
Materials Breakdown
| Material | Qty | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joint compound (5-gallon bucket) | 9 | bucket | $12–$25 | $108–$225 |
| Ceiling paint - flat white (gallon) | 9 | gallon | $28–$55 | $252–$495 |
| Drywall primer (gallon) | 6 | gallon | $22–$42 | $132–$252 |
| Plastic sheeting & floor protection | 1 | kit | $20–$45 | $20–$45 |
| Sanding screens & pole sander | 1 | kit | $15–$30 | $15–$30 |
Popcorn Ceiling Removal & Painting — Frequently Asked Questions
Does my popcorn ceiling contain asbestos?
Homes built before 1980 have a higher likelihood of asbestos in popcorn ceilings. A lab test ($25–$50) is required before removal. Asbestos abatement adds $3–$7 per sq ft to the project cost.
Can I just paint over popcorn ceiling instead of removing it?
Yes, but it will still look dated and collect dust. Painting over popcorn is about 60% cheaper than removal. Some homeowners also choose to install drywall or tongue-and-groove panels over the existing texture.
How messy is popcorn ceiling removal?
Very messy. Wet scraping creates a slurry that falls to the floor. Professional crews fully protect the room with plastic sheeting. The room should be emptied of furniture beforehand.
Want Your Exact Price?
This calculator gives estimates. Get a precise, no-obligation quote from licensed contractors in your area.
Popcorn Ceiling Removal & Painting Cost by City
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