Ceiling Repair Costs

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Ceiling repairs range in complexity and cost based on the material, damage type, and required labor. Here's a breakdown to help estimate your project.

Cost per Square Foot

| Area | Cost Range |
|----------|----------------|
| 9 sq. ft. | $405–$810 |
| 24 sq. ft. | $1,080–$2,160 |
| 70 sq. ft. | $3,150–$6,300 |
| 130 sq. ft. | $5,850–$11,700 |

Rate: $45–$90 per square foot depending on material and extent of damage.
Hourly Rates: $60–$90/hour for small or minor issues.

Cost by Ceiling Material

| Material | Cost per Square Foot |
|--------------------------|--------------------------|
| Traditional Drywall | $45–$55 |
| Lightweight Drywall | $50–$60 |
| Plaster and Lath | $65–$80 |
| Popcorn Ceiling | $75–$90 |
| Drop Ceiling | $2–$17 (tiles only) |

Popcorn Ceilings: Complex and labor-intensive to repair or remove.
Drop Ceilings: Easier for DIY repairs; materials are affordable.

Cost by Type of Damage

| Issue | Average Cost |
|--------------------------|--------------------------|
| Water Damage | $45–$55/sq. ft. |
| Sagging Ceiling | $75/hour |
| Ceiling Holes | $180–$370 |
| Cracks | $400–$1,350 |
| Ceiling Joists | $150–$750 |
| Main Support Beam | $1,500–$10,000 |

Details:

Water Damage: Add costs for plumbing repairs ($175–$3,000) or roof repair ($360–$1,550) if needed.
Sagging Ceilings: Likely involve insulation or drywall replacement.
Main Support Beam Issues: Require structural engineer involvement.

Factors Influencing Costs

Location:
Labor costs and material availability vary by region.
Example: Repairs in California range from $550–$1,660, while in Texas, they cost $470–$1,230.
Extent of Damage:
Minor cosmetic issues are cheaper ($150–$500).
Structural repairs or moisture-related damage can exceed $4,500.
Underlying Issues:
Fix water leaks, plumbing, or structural problems first.
Examples:
- Plumbing repair: $500
- Structural reinforcement: $1,500+
Repair vs. Replace:
Small cracks or minor damage = repair.
Widespread issues or outdated ceilings (e.g., popcorn) = replace.
Material Type:
Older plaster ceilings or specialty materials are costlier to repair.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY Suitable For:
Painting ceilings ($200–$600).
Replacing drop ceiling tiles ($2–$17/sq. ft.).
Hire a Pro For:
Structural repairs, plumbing, or electrical issues.
Fixing cracks, sagging, or major water damage.

Tips to Save Money

Repair Early: Address small cracks or leaks before they worsen.
DIY Simple Tasks: Painting and drop ceiling replacements are easy to manage.
Seasonal Discounts: Schedule repairs during the off-season for better rates.
Bundle Repairs: Combine multiple ceiling or related repairs to save on labor costs.

By addressing ceiling damage promptly and working with experienced professionals, you can keep repair costs manageable and avoid bigger problems down the line!