Is it better to have smooth walls or textured walls?

Author: Carmen Torphy  |  Last update: Friday, March 20, 2026

Textured paint adds depth. While smooth walls are nice, they are standard. It means relying on color choices to improve the look. However, with texturization, you can use the most basic of colors and your walls will still look like a million bucks.

Should walls be smooth or textured?

Basically, a textured wall is more cost effective than smooth wall which is why they are so commonly used in rental properties. Texture can by applied and finished faster than smooth walls, usually requires less material and less skill to achieve a good result.

What are the disadvantages of textured walls?

Textured walls might hide imperfections and be quick to install, but they come with several downsides, like:
  • An outdated look — Are textured walls outdated? ...
  • They're difficult to clean — Textured surfaces collect dust and grime more easily than smooth ones, making cleaning a real challenge.

Do smooth walls increase home value?

The smooth finish provides a blank canvas for interior design, making it easier to match different color schemes, furniture, and decor elements. A home with smooth, clean walls and ceilings can look more inviting and appealing to potential buyers, increasing its market value.

Is wall texture outdated?

While certain types of wall texture are considered outdated, it would be unfair to call all textured walls out of step with modern trends. Like many things with interior design, textured walls are what you make of them, and they can certainly take on a more modern spin when paired with of-the-moment decor.

You'll never sand JOINT COMPOUND again!!!

What wall texture is in style in 2024?

Geometric and Dimensional Textures For those who prefer a more modern, contemporary look, geometric and dimensional textures are set to be a big hit in 2024. These textures play with shapes, lines, and depth to create visually striking walls that become a focal point in any space.

Do textured walls decrease home value?

I can't speak for all areas of the country, however, in CA, smooth texture walls will almost always bring the higher value.

Are smooth or textured walls more expensive?

Level 5 smooth wall is more expensive than a texture. Some builders do offer a level 4, and we used to be one of them. But… we found that clients who paid for a level 4 smooth wall always had some areas they were disappointed with when the sun or light would hit them just right.

What adds the most resale value to a house?

Projects That Boost Your Home's Value
  • Boost the bathrooms. ...
  • Remodel the attic or basement. ...
  • Get decked out. ...
  • Boost curb appeal. ...
  • Improve energy efficiency. ...
  • Swimming Pools. ...
  • Luxury Upgrades. ...
  • Garage Conversions. Converting garages can add square footage to your home's living area, but most buyers want garages.

What strengthens the walls of a home?

The key element used in structural wall strengthening are wall ties, also known as brick ties. These are used in properties that are built with cavity walls, to join the two leaves of the brickwork together. This makes them united and a strong unit that forms the internal and external walls of the property.

Why do people want textured walls?

Drywall texturing is done to create an attractive finish on the walls and ceilings. Texturing adds depth, character and style to the surface, which can enhance the overall appearance of a room. Additionally, texturing helps to hide any imperfections or flaws in the drywall, such as uneven joints, dents or scratches.

Can a room have too much texture?

Putting together an overabundance of contrasting textures will overstimulate the senses. Just like putting together too many patterns in a room, introducing too much texture will result in a cluttered, overwhelming space. Consider high impact feature textures, focusing on two to three deeply textural elements.

What is the smoothest wall texture?

Level 5 wall texture is entirely smooth, creating a high-end look fit for any upscale home ranging from traditional to modern style. This wall texture feels more refined and luxurious, and it is also the most expensive option because creating a smooth wall texture requires additional labor and skill.

Do modern homes have textured walls?

While it is certainly possible to add modern elements to an existing space that has the standard textured drywall finish, in projects requiring construction, we do prefer to recommend starting with a smooth canvas (a.k.a. wall surface). It is part of the base layer to building a more modern aesthetic overall.

How much does it cost to remove texture from walls?

Removing the texture from walls costs anywhere from $500 to $1,000 per 500 square feet, depending on the current conditions of the walls and what you're going for. Hiring a local popcorn ceiling removal pro or interior painting company is more expensive than doing it yourself, but it offers a higher success rate.

What is the best finish for drywall?

A Level 5 drywall finish involves an additional skim coat of joint compound over the entire surface, providing the highest-quality finish. This level is essential for areas with critical lighting conditions, where the appearance of the wall is paramount. It can deliver a smooth, uniform surface.

What devalues a house the most?

8 things that will devalue your home
  • It's important to every homeowner that their property retains its value. ...
  • 1) Poor workmanship. ...
  • 2) An increase in crime levels. ...
  • 3) A substandard kitchen. ...
  • 4) Noise pollution. ...
  • 5) Uninspiring exterior. ...
  • 6) How silent are the neighbours? ...
  • 7) Not energy efficient enough.

What brings down the value of a house?

Age could bring down a home's value, especially if the home needs work. Buying a fixer-upper can translate to all kinds of additional costs. There are cosmetic concerns such as an outdated kitchen or a less-than-modern floor plan, and then there are functional issues like problems with the home's roof or plumbing.

How to increase home value by $50,000?

Adding $50K in Value to Your Home: Top Strategies for Sellers
  1. Curb Appeal Matters. First impressions count. ...
  2. Upgrade the Kitchen. The kitchen is often the heart of the home. ...
  3. Bathroom Remodel. Bathrooms also hold great value. ...
  4. Energy Efficiency Improvements. ...
  5. Fresh Paint and Flooring. ...
  6. Professional Staging. ...
  7. Proper Pricing Strategy.

Should I do smooth or textured walls?

Textured paint adds depth. While smooth walls are nice, they are standard. It means relying on color choices to improve the look. However, with texturization, you can use the most basic of colors and your walls will still look like a million bucks.

What wall texture is trending?

Some of the latest wall texture designs for living rooms are marble finish, geometric patterns, and metallic textures.

What drywall texture is most popular in 2024?

The Skip Trowel Texture is the one that we always recommend, is the most popular and up to date drywall texture right now. If you are remodeling your property is the only one that will show that it have been remodeled recently, giving your place a better re-sell value for the future.

What doesn't add value to a house?

Don't expect a dollar-for-dollar return

However, big-ticket items, such as pools, major kitchen and bath remodels and extensive landscaping undertaken for the sole reason of adding value might not bring the return you hoped for.

What is the number 1 reason we texture walls?

Wall textures have been commonly used to finish interior walls surfaces and to hide imperfections in the drywall.

Does wallpaper lower home value?

Appraisers don't value homes based on a seller's style preferences, so your frilly sofa and yellow carpeting are safe in their ruling. However,”older wallpaper can make a house look and feel outdated. While this may not directly affect the value of the house, it might affect the marketability.

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