Kinds of Drywall Textures
When finishing walls in a room, you may think that your options are limited to the paint shade that you choose. However, while color makes a dramatic impact, the texture of the wall also affects the overall look of a room. Texturing your drywall is an easy way to add decorative texture to your walls; and because there are so many options, you can create a customized look for your room. Does this Spark an idea?
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Orange Peel
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One of the most common textures for drywall is the orange peel finish. It utilizes a quick and easy application method that calls for spraying thinned joint compound onto the wall with a spray hopper. While thinned, the joint compound should be thick enough that it does not run when applied to the wall. You can alter the texture by changing the size of the hopper's nozzle and how far away you hold the tool as you apply the compound.
Knock Down
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The knock down texture is another common finish for drywall. It is more time-consuming than the orange peel texture because, while the joint compound is applied in the same manner, you must follow up with a wide drywall knife to flatten and spread the compound before it dries completely. As a result, the drywall has a slightly bumpy texture that is usually more subtle than the orange peel type.
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Roller
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For another quick and easy drywall texturing method, you can apply joint compound with a paint roller. As with the other methods, the compound should be thinned and a short-nap roller used to spread it across the surface. You can also alter the roller texture by using a drywall knife to smooth the joint compound after it has dried slightly, which is commonly known as the roller knock down method.
Troweled
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For a more decorative texture, joint compound can be applied to the surface with a drywall knife. An arcing motion is usually used so the compound is applied in semi-circles to create high and low ridges and voids. The look can be adjusted by applying heavier coats and making larger arcs as you apply the compound. The finished product resembles Spanish stucco or a plaster finish. Because the troweled method is fairly time-consuming and requires more skill, it is not usually recommended for beginners.
Venetian Plaster
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A Venetian plaster finish also provides a decorative finish for your drywall. It requires three layers of joint compound or a mixture of Venetian lime, marble and pigments. A small trowel is used to apply the compound while a larger trowel smooths it in place. For the most authentic results, the surface should be burnished with a steel spatula after it has dried for approximately an hour. Burnishing provides a glossy finish that can be preserved with a high quality sealer. Applying Venetian plaster is a challenging process so it is usually not a suitable project for beginners.
Slap Brush
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The slap brush method for texturing drywall calls for thinned joint compound to be applied to the wall with a paint roller. A drywall texture brush is then pressed into the compound and dragged downward to create an etched effect. You could also use a rounded brush to create a star-like shape. Slap brush stars are fairly simple to make, but you must be sure to use the same pressure throughout the wall to maintain a consistent look. Both slap brush methods are fairly time-consuming but are usually easy enough for beginners.
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References
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