Cost to Install a Beadboard Ceiling
On February 16, 2025 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!
