What are the Different Options for Textured Walls?

Textured walls can add style and dimension to almost any room, and several different types may be utilized. Slap brush texture may be applied to any kind of drywall, but is somewhat difficult without prior experience. Spanish drag textured walls are a very popular option that typically require professional application. Venetian plaster seldom needs repainting and is available in almost any color. The subtle contours of an orange peel texture usually hides surface imperfections without attracting too much attention.

Textured walls often serve the dual purpose of adding a touch of style as well as hiding surface imperfections. Applying a texture to the wall may help small rooms look larger or complement the overall decorating scheme. Textured walls are particularly useful when a do-it-yourself remodeling project leaves imperfections in the wall surface. Some types of wall texturing are relatively easy to perform while others usually require an experienced professional. The most common type of wall texture is a sprayed on ceiling-style mixture, but there are several other options available.

A slap brush texture is a very popular option for textured walls and is sometimes referred to as crow’s feet or tiger skin. This inexpensive method can be applied to any drywall surface with a variety of techniques. This method is usually thicker than sprayed-on ceiling texture and produces a unique finished pattern. Successfully applying slap brush texture often requires a few practice applications to learn the basic technique. A coat of primer is needed before and after the application and a sealer is also recommended.

Spanish drag is also known as knock down texture and is applied in a three-step process. First, a layer of ceiling-style texture is sprayed onto the wall and allowed to set. Next, the tips of the texture are knocked down and spread with a very long trowel. Then a coat of primer is applied after the texture has dried. This multiple-step process typically requires the services of an experienced professional.

Venetian plaster texturing utilizes a colored material to create an attractive and durable wall surface. The texture is applied in several polished and glazed layers that give the wall a marbled appearance. Venetian plaster can be tinted to almost any color and never needs repainting. The finished surface is typically coated with a sealer for stain resistance. A soap and water scrubbing or light sanding will remove most dirt or stains.

An orange peel texture provides a way to cover surface imperfections without drawing attention to the wall. This texture closely resembles the skin of an orange and can be painted afterward. Orange peel texture is typically applied in a single application with a sprayer. The spraying technique can be difficult to learn without a few practice applications. Once completed, this texture is easily maintained with a periodic soap and water clean-up.