Textured Ceiling Removal in Kitchener-Waterloo
Popcorn is just one type of textured ceiling — and we remove them all. Stipple, orange peel, knockdown, swirl, skip trowel, and sand-finish textures are all common in Waterloo Region homes from the 1970s through the 1990s, and all of them are removable. The process varies by texture type: some can be scraped wet, others require dry sanding or skim coating over the top. We assess your ceiling type during the quote and price accordingly. The end result is always the same — a flat, smooth, modern ceiling ready for paint.
What's Included
- ✓Full texture type assessment
- ✓Dustless removal or skim-coat overlay as appropriate
- ✓Two skim coats for Level 5 smoothness
- ✓Full sanding and surface prep
- ✓Bonding primer application
- ✓Two coats Sherwin-Williams ceiling paint
- ✓Full furniture protection and cleanup
Pricing
Pricing depends on texture type and condition. Starts at $4.50/sqft for removable textures. Call (519) 729-7394 for a free assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of ceiling texture can you remove?
We remove all common residential ceiling textures: popcorn/stucco, stipple, orange peel, knockdown, swirl, skip trowel, and sand finish. Each texture type requires a different approach — we assess during the quote and explain exactly what the job involves.
What is the difference between popcorn ceiling removal and other texture removal?
Popcorn (acoustical/stucco) texture is applied with a spray hopper and absorbs water for easier removal. Other textures like knockdown and orange peel are trowel or spray-applied using drywall mud and are generally harder to wet-remove. Depending on the type, we either remove the texture or skim coat over it to achieve a flat surface.
Can you skim coat over textured ceilings instead of removing them?
Yes — for some texture types (particularly trowel-applied finishes like knockdown), skim coating over the existing texture is faster and less invasive than removal. We apply multiple layers of joint compound over the texture, building up to a smooth Level 5 finish. This eliminates the risk of drywall paper damage during removal.
Do textured ceilings contain asbestos?
Textured ceilings installed before 1980 may contain asbestos, including non-popcorn textures like stipple and orange peel. Any ceiling texture from that era should be tested before removal or sanding. We follow Ontario Regulation 278/05 on asbestos in construction and will not disturb suspect materials without a clear test result.
How much does textured ceiling removal cost in Kitchener-Waterloo?
Standard removable textures start at $4.50/sqft all-inclusive (removal, skim coat, primer, paint). More complex textures requiring skim coating over removal may be priced higher depending on the scope. We provide a firm written quote after assessing your specific ceiling type — no surprises.
Ready to get started?
Free quotes for Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge & Guelph homeowners.