The Most Popular Drywall Texture: An Objective Ranking

Choose the texture you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Jun 16, 2023 10:18 (Updated on Dec 2, 2023 07:41)
Welcome to StrawPoll, where we thrive on unveiling the world's opinions on a myriad of subjects! Today, we're all about exploring the world of drywall textures. Yes, you read that right! With thousands of home design enthusiasts, interior decorators, and DIY-ers, we're on a mission to uncover the ultimate question: "What is the most popular drywall texture?" From classic orange peel to the sophisticated hawk and trowel, we've got the contenders lined up for your votes. But wait, there's more! If you've got a favorite that's missing from our list, don't hesitate to suggest it and join the conversation. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the fascinating realm of drywall textures, cast your vote, and let's discover the reigning champion together!

What Is the Most Popular Drywall Texture?

  1. 1
    57
    votes
    Orange peel texture is the most popular drywall texture because it is easy to apply and requires minimal skill. It is suitable for both walls and ceilings and provides a subtle, slightly bumpy texture.
    Description
    Orange Peel is a popular drywall texture that resembles the surface of an orange peel. It is characterized by a slightly bumpy, textured finish that provides both visual interest and coverage for imperfections in the drywall.
    • Texture Level: Medium
    • Application Technique: Spray or roll-on
    • Texture Size: Small to medium-sized bumps
    • Coverage: Good for hiding imperfections
    • Commonly Used Areas: Residential interiors, commercial spaces
  2. 2
    18
    votes
    Knockdown texture is another popular texture that is applied using a sprayer and then knocked down with a trowel. This texture creates a slightly raised texture that is great for hiding imperfections in the drywall.
    Description
    Knockdown is a popular drywall texture technique that adds a subtle, dimensional pattern to walls and ceilings. It is achieved by applying joint compound or mud to the surface and then lightly knocking it down with a trowel or knife, resulting in a textured finish with a flattened appearance.
    • Technique: Knocking down the applied joint compound with a trowel or knife.
    • Pattern: Subtle, textured finish with a flattened appearance.
    • Application: Applied to drywall walls and ceilings.
    • Versatility: Can be used in various interior spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
    • Ease of Repair: Relatively easy to repair if damaged.
  3. 3
    28
    votes
    Skip trowel texture is a popular choice for creating a rustic or Mediterranean look. The texture is created by applying joint compound in a random pattern and then dragging a trowel over the surface to create peaks and valleys.
    Description
    Skip Trowel is a type of drywall texture that involves applying joint compound or plaster to the surface and then manipulating it using a trowel to create a random, uneven texture. It is often used to hide imperfections and create a rustic or stucco-like appearance on walls and ceilings.
    • Application method: Joint compound or plaster applied with a trowel
    • Texture type: Random, uneven texture
    • Appearance: Rustic or stucco-like
    • Purpose: To hide imperfections
    • Commonly used in: Residential and commercial buildings
  4. 4
    11
    votes
    Smooth texture is a classic drywall finish that is popular in modern homes. It involves sanding the joint compound until it is completely smooth, creating a surface that is free of any texture or imperfections.
    Description
    Smooth texture is a popular drywall finish that provides a sleek and polished appearance to the walls. It has a flat and seamless surface, without any visible texture patterns or variations.
    • Texture pattern: No visible texture patterns or variations
    • Surface finish: Flat and seamless
    • Appearance: Sleek and polished
    • Texture depth: No depth or raised patterns
    • Texture application method: Requires multiple layers of joint compound or mud
  5. 5
    11
    votes
    Popcorn texture is a classic texture that was popular in the 1970s and 80s. It involves spraying the ceiling with a textured material that looks like popcorn. It is less popular now due to its difficulty to clean and potential health risks.
    Description
    Popcorn is a light and fluffy snack made from dried corn kernels that have been heated until they burst open. It is typically seasoned with salt or a variety of flavors like caramel, butter, or cheese. The result is a crispy and addictive snack that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
    • Nutritional content: Popcorn is low in calories and fat, making it a healthier alternative to many other snacks. It is also a good source of fiber.
    • Popping method: Popcorn kernels pop when heated due to the moisture inside turning into steam. This causes the kernel to expand and create the characteristic airy texture.
    • Varieties: Popcorn comes in various shapes and sizes, including butterfly, snowflake, and mushroom varieties. Each has its own unique popping characteristics.
    • Popcorn machines: Specialized machines are available to cook popcorn, ranging from stovetop pans to electric poppers. These machines ensure even heating and prevent burnt or unpopped kernels.
    • Common flavors: While salted popcorn remains a classic favorite, other popular flavors include butter, caramel, cheese, chocolate, and even spicy variations.
  6. 6
    7
    votes
    Swirl texture is a popular choice for those who want a subtle texture that adds visual interest to their walls. It involves dragging a brush or roller in a circular pattern over the wet joint compound.
    Description
    The Swirl drywall texture is a popular choice known for its elegant and sophisticated look. It consists of smooth, flowing patterns that give walls a sense of movement and depth, resembling swirling patterns found in nature.
    • Texture Type: Smooth and flowing swirl patterns
    • Appearance: Elegant and sophisticated
    • Depth: Creates a sense of movement and depth on walls
    • Versatility: Suitable for various interior design styles
    • Application Method: Applied using specialized brushes or trowels
  7. 7
    6
    votes
    Stomp texture is a popular choice for those who want a more rustic or industrial look. It involves using a stomp brush to create a pattern of raised circles on the surface of the joint compound.
    Description
    The Stomp is a popular drywall texture that creates a unique pattern on the surface, adding visual interest and depth to the walls. It involves stomping or pressing a textured brush or stipple brush onto the wet compound to create a raised pattern with a rough, raised finish.
    • Pattern: Rough raised pattern
    • Tools: Textured brush or stipple brush
    • Application: Applied on wet compound
    • Texture density: Varies based on technique
    • Texture depth: Medium to heavy
  8. 8
    5
    votes
    Crows feet texture is a popular choice for those who want a subtle texture that adds dimension to their walls. It involves using a brush or roller to create a pattern of small circles on the surface of the joint compound.
    Description
    Crows Feet is a popular drywall texture that creates a unique pattern resembling small crow's footprints on the wall surface. It produces a textured look that adds visual interest and depth to the walls.
    • Pattern: Resembles small crow's footprints
    • Texture: Creates a textured look
    • Visual Effect: Adds interest and depth to walls
    • Application Method: Applied using a texture sprayer or by hand with specialized tools
    • Materials: Typically requires joint compound or texture mud
  9. 9
    11
    votes
    Fish scale texture is a popular choice for those who want a unique and eye-catching texture on their ceilings or walls. It involves using a trowel to create a pattern of overlapping scallops on the surface of the joint compound.
    Description
    Fish Scale is a popular drywall texture that resembles the scales of a fish. It is created by using a stencil or pattern to apply the texture compound on the drywall surface. The result is a unique and visually interesting texture.
    • Pattern Type: Repetitive fish scales
    • Application Method: Stencil or pattern
    • Texture Compound: Typically drywall mud
    • Tools Required: Texture applicator gun, trowel or brush
    • Material Thickness: Varies based on desired texture depth
  10. 10
    6
    votes
    Lace texture is a popular choice for those who want a delicate and feminine texture on their walls. It involves using a roller or brush to create a pattern of delicate swirls and loops on the surface of the joint compound.
    Description
    Lace is a delicate and intricate fabric that is known for its beauty and elegance. It is a decorative openwork textile made by intertwining or twisting threads, usually in a floral or geometric pattern. This fabric is often used to add a touch of sophistication and femininity to various garments.
    • Material: Lace can be made from a variety of materials, including silk, linen, cotton, synthetic fibers, and even precious metals.
    • Patterns: Lace is characterized by its intricate patterns, which can include flowers, leaves, geometric shapes, and more.
    • Production Techniques: Lace can be created using various techniques, including needle lace, bobbin lace, knitted lace, and crocheted lace. Each technique offers different textures and patterns.
    • Sheerness: Lace is known for its transparency and delicate appearance. The level of sheerness can vary depending on the thickness and type of thread used.
    • Uses: Lace is commonly used in the fashion industry for creating elegant dresses, lingerie, veils, and accessories. It can also be found in home decor items, such as curtains and tablecloths.

Missing your favorite texture?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for popular drywall texture

  1. Aesthetics
    Consider the visual appeal and overall design of the texture, which can impact its popularity. This includes the type of pattern, complexity, and versatility when it comes to matching various interior design styles.
  2. Ease of application
    How easy or difficult the texture is to apply will also affect its popularity. Contractors and DIY homeowners often prefer textures that are quick and easy to apply, with minimal learning curves and common tools required.
  3. Cost
    The overall cost of the materials and labor needed to achieve the desired texture should be considered. A less expensive option might be more popular than a high-cost texture that provides similar aesthetics.
  4. Durability
    A texture's longevity plays a significant role in its popularity. High-quality textures that can withstand wear, tear, and aging without requiring frequent maintenance are preferable.
  5. Repairability
    Consider how easy it is to repair or patch the texture in case of wall damages. Easier-to-repair textures are more likely to be popular among homeowners and contractors.
  6. Trends
    Current design trends can strongly influence the popularity of certain textures. Keep an eye on popular home improvement blogs, magazines, and social media accounts to stay updated on what's currently in demand.
  7. Regional preferences
    Some textures might be popular in specific regions due to factors like local aesthetic preferences, climate, and cultural influences.
  8. Functionality
    Some textures have added benefits like noise reduction (e.g., textured ceilings) or better concealment of wall imperfections. Such functional advantages can contribute to the popularity of a texture.
  9. Environmental impact
    In an increasingly eco-conscious society, textures that minimize waste or use environmentally friendly materials and practices may be more popular among homeowners and contractors.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular drywall texture. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or texture is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 888 views
  • 160 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each texture once every 24 hours. The rank of each texture is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular drywall texture

Drywall is a popular material used in the construction industry, and it comes in different textures. Drywall texture refers to the pattern or design on the surface of the drywall. The texture can be used to enhance the appearance of a room by adding depth and character to the walls. There are several different types of drywall textures, including smooth, orange peel, knockdown, popcorn, and skip trowel. Each texture has its own unique look and feel, and the choice of texture depends on the desired aesthetic of the room. Understanding the most popular drywall texture can help homeowners and contractors make informed decisions when choosing the right texture for their project.

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