Cost to Install a Beadboard Ceiling

On February 25, 2026  By newsroom   Topic: Home Services

A beadboard ceiling adds charm and texture, making it a popular choice for homes. Costs depend on materials, size, and whether you DIY or hire a professional. Here's a breakdown:


Average Costs

| Expense | Cost Range (Per Sq. Ft.) |
|----------------------------------|-----------------------------|
| DIY Installation (Materials) | $2–$4.20 |
| Professional Installation | $5–$6 |
| Popcorn Ceiling Removal | $1.30–$2.50 |
| Asbestos Removal (if needed) | $3–$7 |

  • National Average Cost: $1,500–$5,000 depending on room size and material.

Cost by Material

| Material | Cost (Per Sq. Ft.) | Key Features |
|-------------------------------|--------------------------------|---------------------------------------------|
| Vinyl | $2–$5 | Waterproof, mold-resistant, low maintenance |
| MDF | $1–$5 | Budget-friendly, easy to paint |
| Unfinished Wood (Pine, etc.) | $12–$13.50 | Customizable, paintable |
| Raised Panel Stained Wood | $30–$40 | Luxurious, durable |
| Pine Tongue and Groove | $3–$9 | Adds warmth and character |


Cost by Room Size

| Room | Ceiling Size (Sq. Ft.) | DIY Cost | Pro Cost |
|---------------------|----------------------------|---------------------|---------------------|
| Bathroom | 50 | $200 | $250–$300 |
| Bedroom | 132 | $528 | $660–$800 |
| Living Room | 320 | $1,280 | $1,600–$1,920 |
| Master Bedroom | 184 | $736 | $920–$1,100 |


Labor Costs

  • Professional Installation: $1–$3.50 per square foot.
  • Popcorn Ceiling Removal: $1.30–$2.50 per square foot.

Additional Features

  • Coffered Framing
  • Adds depth and elegance with recessed shapes.
  • Cost: $40–$400 depending on materials and design.

  • Paint & Finish

  • Cost Savings Tip: Purchase raw beadboard and paint it yourself to save on prefinished material costs.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

| DIY | Hiring a Pro |
|-----------------------------------|-----------------------------|
| Cost: $2–$4.20 per sq. ft. | Cost: $5–$6 per sq. ft. |
| Effort: High (requires tools & patience). | Effort: Low—done by experts. |
| Risk: Mistakes in measuring, cutting, or painting. | Risk: Minimal, ensures proper installation. |


Tips to Save Money

  • Opt for Budget Materials: MDF or vinyl beadboard offers a similar look for less.
  • DIY Paint/Finish: Paint the panels yourself to cut costs.
  • Leave Popcorn Ceiling Intact: Install beadboard directly over popcorn ceilings to avoid removal costs.
  • Negotiate Bulk Discounts: For larger projects, ask for material discounts.

Summing it up

  • Beadboard installation ranges from $5 to $6 per sq. ft. (pro) or $2 to $4.20 per sq. ft. (DIY).
  • Material choice and project size heavily influence costs.
  • Hiring a professional ensures a smooth, high-quality finish, but DIY can be rewarding and cost-effective for smaller projects.

Transform your ceiling into a stunning feature with beadboard!


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