Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Toronto: Process, Options & What to Expect

Popcorn Ceiling Removal in Toronto: Complete Guide

Those textured "popcorn" ceilings were popular in Toronto homes from the 1950s through 1990s. Today, they're the #1 thing homeowners want gone. Here's everything you need to know.

Removal Methods

There are several approaches to dealing with popcorn ceilings:

Scrape + retexture — Remove the texture and apply a new, modern finish
Scrape + smooth finish — Remove texture and skim coat to a perfectly smooth ceiling
Drywall overlay — Install new drywall over the existing ceiling (ideal when texture is painted over or contains asbestos)

The right method depends on the condition of your ceiling and whether asbestos is present.

The Process: What to Expect

Prep: Furniture is moved or covered with plastic. Floors protected with drop cloths. Light fixtures removed and walls masked off. Removal: Ceiling is misted with water to soften texture, then scraped off with a wide blade. Imperfections are filled with joint compound. Finishing: Skim coat applied (one to two coats), sanded to a smooth finish, then primed and painted. Timeline: Most homes can be completed in two to three days.

Asbestos: The Important Question

If your home was built before 1990, your popcorn ceiling may contain asbestos. In Ontario, you must test before disturbing it.

Testing involves sending a small sample to an accredited lab
If positive, licensed asbestos abatement is required before removal
Never scrape popcorn ceilings without testing first

We can handle the testing process for you as part of our service.

DIY vs. Professional Removal

While DIY is possible for non-asbestos ceilings, there are significant differences:

Finish quality — Professional removal results in a perfectly smooth, paint-ready surface. DIY typically leaves visible imperfections.
Mess — It's an extremely messy job. Professionals contain and clean everything.
Time — What takes a homeowner several weekends, a pro crew completes in days.
Asbestos — Only licensed professionals can handle asbestos removal legally.

What Your Ceiling Will Look Like After

A professionally finished ceiling after popcorn removal is perfectly smooth — ready for any paint color or finish. It instantly modernizes your home and can increase your property value.