Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Phoenix

Modernize Your Home with Smooth Ceilings

Nothing dates a home like popcorn ceilings. This textured finish was popular from the 1950s-1980s but now feels outdated. Removing popcorn texture and creating smooth ceilings instantly modernizes your space.

John Claude Painting provides professional popcorn ceiling removal throughout the Phoenix East Valley. We handle the messy work so you can enjoy fresh, contemporary ceilings.

Why Remove Popcorn Ceilings?

Update Your Home’s Look

Smooth ceilings feel modern and clean. They make rooms feel larger and brighter.

Increase Home Value

Buyers prefer smooth ceilings. Removal is often mentioned in home improvement ROI lists.

Easier Maintenance

Popcorn texture collects dust and is nearly impossible to clean. Smooth ceilings wipe clean easily.

Better Lighting

Smooth surfaces reflect light evenly. Popcorn texture creates shadows and absorbs light.

Eliminate Stains

Years of water stains, smoke, and discoloration are removed, not just covered.

Asbestos Considerations

Important: Popcorn ceilings installed before 1980 may contain asbestos. Before any removal work:

1. We recommend testing through a certified lab
2. Testing costs approximately $30-50 per sample
3. Results typically take 3-5 business days
4. If asbestos is present, licensed abatement is required

We do not remove asbestos-containing materials, but we can recommend licensed abatement contractors.

Our Popcorn Removal Process

1. Complete Room Preparation

• Remove or cover furniture
• Plastic over floors (6mil poly)
• Plastic walls to prevent splatter
• Cover or remove light fixtures
• Seal doorways

2. Texture Removal

• Lightly mist ceiling to soften texture
• Scrape texture with wide blade
• Repeat until clean
• Collect debris in contained area

3. Surface Repair

• Fix any scraper damage
• Repair exposed seams or cracks
• Fill nail holes
• Sand any rough spots

4. Skim Coat Application

• Thin layer of joint compound
• Creates perfectly smooth surface
• Multiple coats for flawless finish
• Final sand when dry

5. Prime for Painting

• Apply ceiling primer
• Seals surface for even paint absorption
• Ready for final paint coat

Alternative: Encapsulation

If asbestos is present or budget is limited, we offer encapsulation as an alternative:

• Install thin (1/4”) drywall over existing ceiling
• Tape and finish seams
• Results in smooth ceiling without removal

This option is faster and eliminates asbestos disturbance concerns, though it slightly reduces ceiling height.

What to Expect

Duration:

• Single room: 1-2 days
• Average home: 4-6 days

Disruption:

• Room being worked must be emptied
• Some dust despite containment
• Can work room by room if needed

Results:

• Smooth, modern ceilings
• Primed and ready for paint
• Significant visual update

Ready to eliminate dated popcorn ceilings? Contact us for your free estimate.