Ceiling repair is one of the most challenging drywall jobs because gravity and lighting both work against you. A repair that would be invisible on a wall stands out on a ceiling. Our crews specialize in ceiling work and use the right tools — drywall lifts, stilts, dustless sanders — to deliver clean results overhead.
Common Ceiling Problems
We see water stains from upstairs leaks, cracks running along the seam between drywall sheets, sagging from old or wet drywall, popcorn texture damage, holes from removed light fixtures, and stress cracks at the perimeter where the ceiling meets the walls. Each has a different fix.
Popcorn Ceiling Removal
Many Wilmington homes still have popcorn (acoustic) ceilings from the 1970s and 80s. We scrape the popcorn, skim coat the ceiling smooth with two to three coats of joint compound, sand flat, prime, and prep for paint. The transformation is dramatic — every room looks larger and more modern with a smooth ceiling. We always test for asbestos before scraping pre-1980 popcorn.
Sagging Ceiling Repair
A sagging ceiling almost always means water damage, failed fasteners, or both. We address the source first, then either re-screw the existing drywall to the joists (if it's structurally sound) or replace the affected section entirely. We never just patch over a sag — it will return.
What's Included
- Popcorn ceiling removal
- Smooth ceiling conversions
- Sagging ceiling rebuilds
- Texture matching
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to remove popcorn ceiling?+
Wilmington popcorn removal typically runs $1.50–$3.50 per square foot depending on ceiling height and condition. A 200 sq ft room is usually $300–$700.
How long does ceiling repair take?+
Small ceiling patches are 1–2 visits over 2 days. Full popcorn removal in one room is usually 3–4 days.
Do I need to move furniture?+
We cover everything with plastic and drop cloths, but moving lightweight items out of the room speeds up the work and reduces dust risk.
Will the ceiling crack again after repair?+
Not if we address the underlying cause. Cracks that come back usually mean ongoing movement or moisture that needs structural attention.