How Much Does It Really Cost to Sand Texture a Painted Wall?

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If you're sitting, looking at your painted wall thinking, “Can I sand texture a painted wall?"—you're not alone. Whether on the hunt for a complete interior makeover, changing wall texture, or prepping for new paint, contemplating the price, process, and labor required could shave plenty of hours (and stress) off your life.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• Can you sand a textured painted wall? (spoiler: probably yes and no)
• What the process looks like
• Realistic cost breakdowns
• And how it ties in to larger renovation efforts, such as installing new vinyl or laminate flooring and updating your kitchen cabinets.

Let’s get started.

Can You Sand Texture a Painted Wall?

The short answer: Yes, but only if you have the guts.

Sanding a textured wall once it has been painted is possible, just messy, labor-intensive and not always savvy. The degree of difficulty is based on the type of texture (popcorn, slap brush, orange peel, knockdown) and on how many layers of paint have been applied over it.

Here’s when sanding makes sense:

• You want smooth walls before repainting or applying wallpaper
• The current texture is uneven or patchy
• You're switching design styles and want a clean slate

Here’s when it might be better to skim coat or replace drywall:

• The wall has multiple layers of paint
• The texture is deep or flaky
• You’re short on time and want a smoother, cleaner option

Want to explore your texture style options before you commit? Our wall texture guide covers what each type looks like and where it fits best.

Cost to Sand Texture a Painted Wall

So, what’s the damage to your wallet?

Project Scope	Estimated Cost (Per Sq. Ft.)	Total Estimate (200 sq. ft. room)
DIY Sanding (Rentals, Supplies)	$0.50–$1.00	$100–$200
Professional Drywall Sanding	$1.50–$3.50	$300–$700
Skim Coating Instead Depth	$2.00–$4.00	$400–$800

Pro Tip: Sometimes, a pro will suggest skim coating instead of sanding. It gives smoother results and is often more budget-friendly in the long run.

Need expert advice or hands-on help? Our Bergen County Painting Service team is ready to tackle wall textures, paint jobs, and more with professional care.

When Wall Texture Meets Flooring and Cabinets

You may be wondering, “Why stop at the walls?” If you're already refreshing textures, think about:

1. Vinyl or Laminate Flooring

If you’re refreshing walls, odds are you’re considering your floors too.

• Vinyl flooring: Water-resistant and affordable, vinyl is great in kitchens and basements.

• Laminate flooring also brings a “hardwood  feel and superior scuff / scratch-resistant properties compared to other flooring options.

The cost difference is slight:

• Vinyl Flooring: $3.50–$ 5.50 sq. ft.
• Laminate Flooring : $2.50–$ 4.50 sq. ft.

Read more in our blog: Laminate vs Vinyl Flooring: Which Should You Pick?

Need expert advice? Our team handles full installations and epoxy flooring, too.

2. Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets

Your walls look great. Your floor is updated. And then you look at those dull cabinets…

Painting your kitchen cabinets is one of the most cost-effective ways to modernize your space.

Average costs:

• DIY: $200–$600 (materials only)
• Professional: $2,000–$4,500 depending on size, material, and detail

Read more on kitchen cabinet painting costs to plan your next upgrade.

Final Comments: Worth It?

If you're detail-oriented, patient, and like a challenge in the form of a DIY project, then sanding that textured painted wall may be the best solution. But if you're after smooth, modern finishes with little mess, you may want to call in the professionals or take the skim-coat approach. 

And as always, home improvement renovations like sanding and painting floors are best considered as part of the bigger picture. Whether you're knocking down the walls with the cost of vinyl or laminate or calculating the cost to paint kitchen cabinets, you're pouring value, comfort, and the overall feel of your home.

Ready for a Professional Finish?

If you are in Bergen County, Rockland County or Westchester and you are looking for the right people for your walls, MGP PAINTING gets it. Whether it's a little sanding and texturing or a complete interior with paint and flooring, we treat every project with our quality and care. 

Call 845.290.5284 to schedule a free estimate and a no-hassle consultation today. Let's take those old textures and turn them into wonderful, smooth walls you will love.

FAQs: Textured Wall Sanding Edition

Can you sand textured walls that are painted?

Yes, but be prepared for dust and effort. Sanding painted texture takes longer and may require multiple passes.

Should I sand or skim coat?

If the texture is very deep or the paint has multiple layers, skim coating may result in a faster and cleaner process.

Is it cheaper to replace drywall than to sand?

In extreme cases like heavily textured or damaged walls, yes. Sanding is still cost-effective for smaller jobs.

What prep do I need before sanding?

• Move furniture and cover everything
• Wear a mask and eye protection
• Use a sanding pole or drywall sander
• Always test a small area first

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