About Drywall Texture Finishes
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Drywall texturing is usually done for a quick and easy finish on ceilings but sometimes will also be used on walls or ceilings to hide imperfections. In fact, texturing will only work to hide the most minor flaws in a drywall surface. It will not hide cracks or holes, uneven drywall joints or depression in the surface. So if you want to apply a textured finish to drywall, be sure the surface is generally level to start with.
Spray–On Drywall Textures
Drywall textures can be applied in several ways. Some textured finishes like knockdown, orange peel and popcorn are applied with a sprayer or hopper. These are usually done by professionals because they require specialized tools and practice to get them right. Fortunately these finishes are also available in spray cans for touch-up over drywall and plaster repairs.
Textured Paints
Another method for creating a textured finish involves the use of sand or stucco paint and a specially made roller to apply it to drywall. The roller has nylon loops braided into the surface. The loops pull the coating away from the smooth surface as you roll, to create peaks in the finish. This is a common and fairly easy method of texturing a ceiling.
Joint Compound Drywall Textures
Another easy ceiling texturing technique involves adding paint to joint compound. The mud is then spread over the ceiling about ¼ inch thick. While wet, a long handled, nylon broom or a wide brush is used to slap the surface leaving an impression in the finish. An ordered pattern can be created by slapping the texture in straight, diagonal lines across the ceiling or randomly for a less noticeable finish.
Some other texturing techniques using joint compound:
To leave a stippled finish, press a wide brush or concrete trowel into the mud and pulled it straight off in an ordered or random pattern. To create a circle, turn the tool 360° or half circles to create a pattern of arches across the ceiling. These techniques usually work best in a random pattern.
