Different Types of Drywall Finishes

Drywall finishes serve several purposes. They can add charm, warmth and character to a home. They can hide defects in a wall or ceiling. Drywall provides an architectural look for a house or room. It can also cover evidence of repairs.

The different types of drywall adds texture that can help achieve a special type of design for rooms in your home. Generally, texturing is an inexpensive interior finish compared to other design elements like flooring, trim or lighting.

Keep reading to learn about the different types of drywall finishes.

Skip Trowel Finish

There are a variety of skip trowel finishes, because most contractors will have one or more techniques in performing a skip trowel finish. Generally a thin coat or layer of drywall mud is applied to a wall or ceiling and then a trowel is dragged in an arching pattern across the finish which usually results in the mud rolling off one edge. This gives a raised look where the mud rolls off.

This type of finish does not stand up well where there may be furniture against a wall or where there may be items hitting or rubbing the wall. Items touching the wall can cause the ridges of the pattern to chip off.

Knock Down Finish

It is pretty easy to see where the term “Knock Down” finish comes from. Basically, drywall mud is sprayed on the drywall, but the droplets are significantly larger than the droplets of an orange peel finish (discussed below). After the droplets or globules have slightly dried a drywall knife is run across the tops of these droplets knocking them partially down, thus generating a knock down finish.

Orange Peel

The orange peel finish is one of the most common drywall finishes in residential construction and remodeling. One of the features that contractors like about it is that you just spray it on and let it dry. No additional labor steps are required, versus many other finishes that require extra labor. Once the finish is sprayed on, you just let it dry, then prime and paint your preferred color.

It is normally applied with drywall mud that is sprayed on using an air compressor and a special nozzle. When it’s dry, it looks a little bit like small droplets that resemble those of an orange peel.

Stipple, Slap Brush, Crows Feet, etc. Brush Finishes

There are many types of drywall brush finishes and they vary. They usually involve a brush with stiff, moderate or soft bristles and the brush may be long, short, skinny, wide or round.

The type of brush will be determined by the look and texture that you prefer. It will also depend on the hired contractor and their preferred methods and brushes.

Venetian Finish

Venetian plaster has been used to create spectacular finishes in cathedrals, palaces and villas. Today, similar looks can be achieved with modern products that can be applied over drywall.

These products are generally more expensive and the level of skill required to apply them is above the average homeowners skill level. It’s important to hire a professional contractor to achieve this drywall design.

Mud Swirl

A swirl drywall finish looks like a group of partial circles in a pattern that is usually found on ceilings, but occasionally can be found on walls. There are some contractors that may describe the finish as a spinning, whirl or churning look and the partial circles often appear stacked in rows. This look has been used for many years and requires a skilled contractor to apply this type of finish; otherwise imperfections stand out.

A swirl finish is usually accomplished by applying a thin coat of drywall mud and then with a stiff bristle, you drag the brush through the fresh mud in a circular pattern. It’s important to maintain a consistent geometrically even pattern!

When remodeling, why not give some thought about updating the texture on your walls to add extra charm to your home. When discussing the subject with your preferred contractor, remember that there are many techniques and often several different names for the same look. Hiring a professional is the most important step! La Pera’s General Contracting in Panama City and Tampa, Florida has a team of professional and licensed contractors experienced in every area of construction, from remodeling to new construction! We are equipped to help you make the right decision for your home and for your budget. We strive to give our clients options, as well as sound advice based on solutions that work. If you have questions about your construction project, call La Pera’s General Contracting today! We will provide you with a detailed inspection and estimate by a professional contractor.

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