Several ceiling textures get mistaken for popcorn ceiling, including knockdown texture, orange peel texture, skip-trowel/swirl finishes, and stomp texture. Popcorn (acoustic/stipple) ceiling has a distinct bumpy, cottage-cheese look with sharp raised peaks. Knockdown texture starts the same way but is flattened with a trowel for a smoother, mottled finish. Orange peel is a fine, subtle spray texture with small bumps, and swirl or skip-trowel finishes show hand-applied patterns rather than random texture.

This distinction matters because of asbestos risk. Popcorn ceilings installed before the mid-1980s may contain chrysotile asbestos mixed into the texture. Under Ontario Regulation 278/05, testing is required before disturbing any suspect material — though removal itself isn't mandated by law, and the Ontario Building Code doesn't regulate popcorn ceilings. We coordinate lab testing at cost ($300–$500, no markup).

• Unpainted popcorn: $4.50/sqft all-inclusive
• Latex-painted: $6.50/sqft
• Oil-painted: $7.50/sqft

Not sure what's on your ceiling? Call (519) 729-7394 and we'll identify it for free. KW Popcorn Ceiling Removal · Kitchener service area · Google Reviews