Southwest Drywall Texture Techniques

Main Application Techniques

• Southwestern drywall textures are applied using about three different methods. The plaster may be sprayed on using a hopper and then smoothed down. Hand-applied plasters use a drywall trowel and create very organic and one-of-a-kind wall finishes difficult to replicate. Paint rollers can also apply plaster. The look created with a paint roller is a stippled effect, and the roller creates many peaks in the plaster. Some people choose to keep the peaks while others smooth them down to create a more subtle plaster effect.

Products

• Many drywall textures are created using joint or drywall compound. The product is one of the most inexpensive plasters on the market in 2011. Additional plasters are available but range much higher in price. Joint compound is a relatively soft plaster, so you may notice chips and dings in the texture more frequently. Additives such as sand are occasionally stirred into the plaster to create a more natural, gritty appearance.

Effects

• Adding a Southwestern texture to your walls is helpful when you need an additional sound barrier. The texture works as an acoustical barrier, especially important in rooms with high ceilings and without carpet. Plaster effects have been traditionally used on ceilings by home home builders to disguise drywall flaws. Drywall nails may pop out, and the seams may be visible when poor application methods are used. A Southwestern style texture and other textures hide these flaws.

Warning

• Applying any type of texture is a near permanent solution. The finish is very difficult to remove or sand down to a smooth wall. Only texture your walls if you are sure you want to keep this look in your home for many years. While the texture is nearly impossible to remove, the finish may be painted a different color or faux finished for a fresh new look.