Popcorn ceilings — also called acoustic or stipple ceilings — were popular from the 1950s through the 1980s, but today they date your home and can harbor dust and allergens. Removing them is one of the highest-ROI improvements you can make before selling or simply refreshing your space. GQ Custom Painting specializes in popcorn ceiling removal and smooth ceiling painting throughout Pasadena, Altadena, Burbank, Glendale, Whittier, and all of LA County. We protect your home, scrape thoroughly, skim-coat for a truly smooth result, then prime and paint — leaving you with ceilings that look like they were built yesterday.
We remove all textured material, skim-coat to a smooth finish, and paint — leaving ceilings that look brand new and up-to-date.
We fully protect your floors and furniture with drop cloths and plastic sheeting before we start scraping — keeping your home spotless.
GQ Custom Painting holds California Contractor License #1152048 and carries full liability insurance for your protection.
We patch cracks, nail pops, and water stains before painting — your ceiling comes out perfectly smooth, not just texture-free.
Most rooms are completed in one day. We work efficiently to minimize disruption to your home.
We use flat, washable premium ceiling paints that resist yellowing and are optimized for smooth surface sheen.
Free in-home estimate — we measure your ceilings, identify any asbestos risk (pre-1980 homes), and provide a transparent quote.
Complete furniture protection — floors and all furniture covered with drop cloths and plastic sheeting.
Moisture application — we lightly mist the popcorn texture to soften it for clean, efficient removal.
Scraping — using wide joint knives and pole scrapers, all texture material is removed down to the drywall.
Skim coat & sand — a thin layer of joint compound is applied and sanded smooth to eliminate any surface imperfections.
Prime & paint — two coats of premium flat ceiling paint for a bright, modern finish.
Cost depends on room size and ceiling height. For most rooms in the LA County area, pricing ranges from $1–$3 per square foot. We provide a free, detailed estimate for every project — no surprises.
Homes built before 1980 may have asbestos in popcorn ceilings. If your home was built before 1980, we recommend an asbestos test before removal. We can advise you on trusted testing services, and we do not disturb potentially asbestos-containing material without proper clearance.
A typical bedroom takes about half a day; a larger living room or open-plan area may take a full day. Multi-room projects are typically completed within 2–3 days.
We ask that you clear off surfaces and move small items. Our team will cover and protect remaining furniture and floors with drop cloths and plastic sheeting.
We serve all of Los Angeles County including Pasadena, Altadena, Burbank, Glendale, Whittier, Downey, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, and more. Call (626) 567-1166 to confirm your area.
Lic# 1152048 | Serving Pasadena, Altadena, Burbank, Glendale, Arcadia & all of LA County
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