Ceiling Remodel Cost & Upgrade Guide: Find a Ceiling Style That Fits Your Goals
Written by Artisan Contracting on May 6, 2025
Thinking about remodeling? Ceilings often get overlooked during renovations, but upgrading them can dramatically improve a room’s appearance and value. Before jumping into the project, it’s important to understand what it really takes in terms of cost, materials, and the structural work involved. In this guide, we’ll cover practical insights to help you decide which ceiling upgrades make sense for your home and budget based on a number of trending styles.
Cost to Remodel Ceilings: What You Should Expect
Ceiling remodelling costs depend primarily on the materials chosen, ceiling style, and the complexity of the project. Basic drywall ceiling renovations typically range from $4-$6 per square foot. However, specialty ceilings featuring materials such as shiplap, coffered panels, or exposed beams generally cost significantly more—ranging from $8-$30 per square foot.
In Ontario and the GTA, the overall budget for ceiling remodelling usually varies from $2,000 to over $10,000 per room. This includes both material and labour costs. Factors affecting pricing include the current state of your ceilings, room dimensions, materials selected, and structural modifications required.
Shiplap Ceilings: Affordable and Contemporary
Shiplap ceilings are increasingly popular among homeowners for their clean lines and versatility in various interior design styles like rustic farmhouses and contemporary minimalism. Materials alone usually cost $2-$5 per square foot, while professional installation adds another $3-$5 per square foot. This affordable yet upgraded option can dramatically elevate living spaces and bedrooms for a wallet-friendly amount.
Trendy yet Timeless Exposed Ceiling Beams
Exposed ceiling beams deliver significant visual impact, enhancing architectural interest and warmth. Authentic wooden beams cost around $15-$30 per linear foot, but there may be beautiful beams hiding behind your drywall. Installation labour typically ranges between $500-$2,000 or more, depending on structural adjustments needed.
Faux beams offer a budget-friendly alternative at roughly half the cost and significantly lighter weight, making them ideal for renovations with structural limitations.
Coffered Ceilings: Premium Elegance
For a luxurious upgrade, coffered ceilings create depth and dimension in formal areas like living rooms, dining rooms, and master suites. Expect to budget $20-$30 per square foot, with detailed custom designs potentially increasing expenses. A medium-sized room typically ranges from $5,000-$10,000.
Charming Tongue-and-Groove Ceilings
Tongue-and-groove ceilings provide classic charm and natural beauty, ideal for enhancing cozy, cottage-inspired aesthetics in kitchens, bedrooms, or outdoor living spaces. Total installed costs usually range between $6-$10 per square foot. While pine is common and cost-effective, cedar is slightly pricier yet offers greater durability and appealing natural coloration.
Vaulted Ceilings for a Dramatic Transformation
Vaulted ceilings, also known as cathedral ceilings, can significantly enhance a room’s sense of openness and grandeur. However, this renovation involves substantial structural changes. Costs range significantly from approximately $15,000 to well over $30,000, depending on necessary roof restructuring, insulation improvements, electrical work, and premium finishing materials.
Stylish Wainscoting and Beadboard Ceilings
Here, we get back to budget-friendly ideas. Beadboard, or wainscoting, offers an elegant yet cost-effective option to cover dated or damaged ceilings. Material and labour typically cost between $5-$8 per square foot. Ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, or dens, this timeless ceiling style provides an instant visual upgrade without extensive structural changes.
Hiring Artisan Contracting for Ceiling Remodelling in Burlington
Given the complexities of ceiling remodelling, hiring a professional contractor with specific expertise in your chosen ceiling type is crucial. Always verify contractor references, past project photos, and ensure clear, transparent quoting to avoid surprises.
Ready to remodel your ceilings? Contact Artisan Contracting today to discuss your ceiling renovation and receive a detailed, customized quote.
