Traditional Textured Ceilings

Types

• Knockdown, Spanish lace and stucco finishes are all heavy plasters applied by hand or by blowing thin joint compound onto the ceiling with a hopper. The peaks and high points of the finish are then flattened and leveled. These traditional textures may be referred to by a different name, depending on where in the country you live. Popcorn acoustical texture is one of the most common ceiling textures found in homes. The plaster looks similar to cottage cheese and in some older homes, it may even have sprinkles of glitter in the plaster. Higher-end textured ceilings are faux finished with a variety of plaster products and then glazed for color.

Benefits

• Installing a smooth, flat ceiling is more expensive than a textured ceiling. The amount of work to create a perfectly smooth ceiling with zero flaws is rather difficult and takes practice and time. Ceilings were originally textured to hide drywall imperfections. Drywall professionals do not need to create the perfect surface since texture will hide all blemishes. Texture also adds character and uniqueness to a room and works as a sound barrier.

Caution

• Popcorn ceiling was a favorite for homeowners starting in the 1960s. However, the finish has decreased in popularity. Many homeowners are now attempting to remove the acoustical texture. When removing popcorn ceiling texture, understand that you may be exposed to asbestos. Homes built before 1980 may contain asbestos in the popcorn ceiling. The toxic material only is exposed when attempting to remove the texture. Before removal, have your ceiling tested by a local laboratory. Removing an asbestos popcorn ceiling without proper certification is illegal.

Drawbacks

• Texture is very difficult to remove. Popcorn ceilings require the entire surface to be soaked with water and then slowly scraped away with a putty knife. Heavier and harder textures such as knockdown or stucco may be sanded, followed by several coats of joint compound skimmed on. Still, other very rough textures simply cannot be removed. Some faux finish and decorative art treatments cannot be applied to a textured wall.