Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Boulder, Colorado
Boulder has a significant amount of housing built between the 1950s and 1980s — the exact era when spray-applied acoustic texture (commonly called “popcorn” ceiling) was standard on virtually every new home. If you’re living with those ceilings, you already know how much they date a space.
Popcorn ceiling removal is one of the most impactful cosmetic upgrades a homeowner can make. The rooms feel taller, lighting works better, and the ceiling stops collecting cobwebs and dust in an untouchable texture. We handle the full process, from first scrape to finished ceiling.
The Asbestos Question — Important for Older Boulder Homes
If your home was built before 1980, the texture material may contain asbestos fibers. This was standard practice until asbestos was regulated out of residential construction materials.
We strongly recommend testing before removal on any pre-1980 Boulder property. Disturbing asbestos-containing material without proper containment is a health risk and a regulatory violation.
We can refer you to a certified asbestos testing lab in the Boulder area. Once you receive clear test results, we take it from there. If results come back positive, the material must be removed by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor before drywall work begins — we can help connect you with the right professionals.
Our Removal Process
Step 1 — Prep and Protect We remove light fixtures, protect flooring, and apply plastic sheeting to walls before any scraping begins. Popcorn ceilings are dusty and messy — containment is important.
Step 2 — Wet Scrape We mist the ceiling surface with water to soften the texture, then scrape it away with wide floor scrapers. This method minimizes airborne dust and protects the underlying drywall face paper.
Step 3 — Repair and Skim After scraping, the ceiling often has minor damage, screw pops, or imperfections. We address these and apply a skim coat of joint compound for a clean, level surface.
Step 4 — Refinish Most homeowners choose a smooth or lightly orange-peeled finish after popcorn removal. We apply your chosen texture and sand to a paint-ready surface.
Ceiling Refinishing Options
- Smooth — The most popular choice; modern and clean
- Orange peel (light) — Hides minor imperfections; subtle texture
- Knockdown — A moderate hand-applied texture for a craftsman look
Pricing Notes
Popcorn ceiling removal is priced by square footage of ceiling area. Multiple rooms handled together are more cost-effective than doing them separately. Contact us for a free on-site estimate.