Different Textures for Ceilings

Popcorn

• The popcorn ceiling texture applied in the '60s and '70s may contain asbestos, but modern finish mixtures are safe and asbestos free. This is a easy-to-apply and relatively-quick ceiling finish that hides a variety of imperfections. The bumps and lumps of this texture trap dust and dirt much faster than other ceiling textures, says the This Old House website; if you live in an area with a lot of dust, car exhaust or smoke, you may want to choose another option.

Knockdown

• The application of a knockdown texture begins with spraying the ceiling with the same bumpy joint compound layer that is the finished result of a popcorn or orange-peel ceiling. However, this texture becomes different when you run a troweling knife over the surface to smooth it, according to The Family Handyman website. This process creates a ceiling texture that has a crackled, patchy surface while remaining relatively smooth. Knockdown ceilings look more finished and elegant than other textures.

Stomp

• The stomp, or crow's foot, ceiling texture is thinner than other options, making it less suitable for hiding cracks or uneven sections of the ceiling. Diluted joint compound is rolled onto the ceiling, says the Drywall Tips website, then a round bristle brush is pushed into the compound while it is still soft. This creates a rounded, starburst pattern. Randomly pushing the brush into the compound creates an organic finish, or you could carefully apply the texture in a grid for a more controlled look.

Swirl

• All you need to create an elegant and refined ceiling texture is a large soft-bristled brush. The swirl ceiling texture starts out with a rolled layer of water-thinned joint compound. Simply swirl the brush in a set of slightly overlapping circles to create a lightly textured finish that isn't as distracting as popcorn or knockdown textures, according to the Hometime website. Stick to one size of circles for each room's ceiling to create a uniform look instead of a distracting pattern.