Types of Textured Ceilings

Sprayed

• One method for adding texture to a ceiling is to spray the surface with a texturing compound. The best mixture for this type of textured ceiling is drywall compound that is thinned with water. The mixture is placed in a spray applicator so it can be sprayed across the ceiling. Most spray applicators feature adjustable nozzles which allow you to customize the texture from fine to extremely coarse. While the spray method can create an attractive texture for your ceiling, it can be very messy. Before applying the texturing compound, remove as many items as you can from the room, and cover the rest with a tarp or drop cloth.

Rolled

• Another way of adding texture to your ceiling calls for rolling a thicker texturing compound onto the surface. This style of ceiling is known as a popcorn ceiling and uses granular particles that are mixed in latex paint and rolled onto the ceiling with a paint roller. However, some popcorn ceilings combine the granular particles with a semi-liquid base so it can be used in aerosol form and sprayed on the surface as with the drywall compound and water mixture. While relatively easy to install, popcorn ceilings are not particularly durable because the texturing granules often come loose if touched or another coat of paint is added on top.

Painted

• If you want to add texture to your ceiling but do not want to deal with the more permanent methods, faux finish painting techniques are an ideal alternative. Color washing is an attractive option for a ceiling and offers an easier application than many other faux finish techniques, which is helpful when painting a ceiling. A base color is applied to the ceiling that has either a semi-gloss or satin finish. When it has dried, a glaze is applied in a second shade that either contrasts or complements the first. The glaze is applied with a brush, using strokes that form haphazard X's across the ceiling. The X's should overlap so they all blend together. When the entire ceiling is covered, a damp rag is used to soften the lines of the brushstrokes while the glaze is still slightly damp. The finished product resembles weathered stucco and easily hides signs of damage on your ceiling.

Metal

• Pressed metal tiles are an easy way to add instant texture to your ceiling. Most pressed metal tiles are made of tin and feature designs that range from simple to fairly intricate. This type of textured ceiling is a better fit for older homes and apartments because the tiles tend to have an old-fashioned feel. The tiles can also affect the acoustics of a room, so you may want to pair them with a heavy rug or drapes to absorb the additional sound.