What are the Different Types of Drywall Texture?

Nearly every home includes walls that are made from different types of drywall texture. Not only is drywall versatile, it is also a great way to spruce up any interior space. There are various types of drywall textures including smooth and rough finishes. The type of drywall texture that you choose will determine the overall look of your home.

Drywall is also known as gypsum board, wall board, plaster board, Gibraltar board, gib wall, or Sheetrock®. While the name of the material may change depending upon your location, the material itself remains the same. Within North America, drywall texture is graded according to the scale created by the US Gypsum Association. This scale includes five different drywall textures that are determined according to the type of wall in consideration.

Level 0 indicates drywall that is to be installed without any tape joint or compound. Level 1 indicates drywall that is to be installed using drywall joint tape. Level 1 walls are generally hidden from sight. Level 2 drywall is also used when a wall is to remain out of sight, and this type of drywall is installed with the help of tape joint. The main difference between Level 1 and Level 2 is that Level 2 drywall does not have as many markings as Level 1 drywall.

Level 3 drywall is reserved for walls that will be in plain view, though these walls will also be covered by thicker paints. Any type of paint or textured finish will easily cover this type of wall. Most homes include Level 4 drywall, which is a type of drywall that has been completely sanded and smoothed. This type of surface is perfect for any paint or finish, since joint tape and compound cannot be seen.

Homeowners that plan on covering their walls with glossy paint should consider Level 5 drywall. This type of finish was meant for walls that will be exposed to direct sunlight, and covered with high-gloss paint. There are numerous types of textures that can be applied to walls. Those walls that have been finished using Level 4 or 5 can easily be covered using any texture technique desired.

Trowels, sprays, paint rollers, sponges, and other drywall texture tools are available at hardware stores. Textures range from smooth to swirled, and new textures are being invented constantly. popular textures include Perlite, Orange Peel, and Slip Trowel. All of these textures create a bumpy appearance similar to small grains of sand. The drywall texture that you choose is largely up to your sense of style, though the type of drywall that you install is crucial.