Drywall Texture Choices Explained.
Drywall textures have names that make it difficult to understand exactly what you will be getting. Not saying the monikers are not attempting to help but do you know what a "crow's foot" texture would look like on your walls? You're not alone! There is some good news though! Most, not all, but most of the heavy and crazy named drywall finishes of the Victorian era and the 1950s are out of style. Let's look at demystifying the ones that are still commonly found.
Drywall texture is applied to the wall via a spray gun or a hand trowel, depending on the desired end result. The spray gun is used for lighter texture and the hand trowel for the heavier textures.
Orange Peel
Like the name suggests, this texture resembles the skin of an orange and is the most common texture found in residential construction. Orange peel comes in several variations: light, medium & heavy and is applied by a spray gun.
Knock Down
This texture is also applied with a spray gun and similar to orange peel, comes in three variations, light, medium & heavy. The difference is that once applied to the wall, the technician will skim the wall with a drywall knife that will flatten out the texture drops making a more smooth but variegated finish.
Level 5
Most folks know Level 5 as a smooth texture. Sometimes referred to as a gallery finish. Level 5 refers to the different steps to achieve the process. Level 0 being hung drywall, level 1 is having the joints taped & bedded with Mud, level 2 is having your corner beads installed and all the excess mud removed from taped joints and corner beads. Level 3 is the first coat of mud on the wall and sanded smooth. Level 4 is considered a finish coat. This is is a 2nd full layer of mud on the walls and sanded smooth. This level, when done correctly will work for most applications where a smooth finish is desired. Level 5 is an additional coat of mud sanded smooth and is only necessary when the walls will have a harsh light illuminating them.
Level 5, of course, is the most expensive due to all the extra hand-troweled labor. Light orange peel is still popular because it achieves coverage and it takes less labor.
