Why do American houses have textured walls?

Author: King Hickle  |  Last update: Sunday, June 15, 2025

In many cases, this was likely done as a cost-saving option. Textured walls with “orange peel,” popcorn, or swirl patterns may have been popular in the 1970s - but today it's a pretty obvious sign that something was done cheaply and quickly in order to hide imperfections and errors.

Why do American homes have textured walls?

There's a reason most walls in residential projects are textured. They hide imperfections in the drywall job, which likely are a result of imperfections in the framing, which are likely imperfections in the lumber used to build the walls.

What is the point of 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.

Why do new builds have textured walls?

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.

Why do houses in Texas have textured walls?

Textured walls are also common in Texas because they are easier to maintain than many other types of wall finishes. Since they are mostly made from texture paints, they do not easily accumulate dirt and dust. This makes them a great choice for homeowners who live in areas that are prone to dust.

Perfect walls made easy! Level 5 drywall finish (skim coating)

Is it better to have smooth walls 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 are Texas style houses called?

1. Ranch Houses. Texas is known for its cowboys and Southern charm, so it's perhaps no surprise that traditional ranch houses are always near the top of the list of common home styles. Also known as rambler or rancher, this style became popular in the post-World War II era.

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.

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.

When did textured walls become popular?

Textured walls with “orange peel,” popcorn, or swirl patterns may have been popular in the 1970s - but today it's a pretty obvious sign that something was done cheaply and quickly in order to hide imperfections and errors. In fact, this is often why you'll see textured walls in many commercial buildings.

Why do apartments have popcorn ceilings?

They Dampen Noise – The textured, thick, and porous surface of a popcorn ceiling helps it muffle and absorb sounds.

Are textured walls harder to paint?

If you have textured wall surfaces or wallpaper, you might hesitate about painting over them. However, while it can take a little more time and requires a little more effort compared to smooth walls, painting textured walls really isn't as difficult as you might imagine.

How to get rid of textured walls?

  1. Method 1: Soak and Scrape. The soak-and-scrape method is most effective in removing texture when the walls have never been painted. ...
  2. Method 2: Apply a Skim Coat on Textured Walls. Smooth out textured painted walls by covering the texture in a joint compound—also known as a skim coat. ...
  3. When to Call a Professional.

Why are American walls so thin?

Two reasons - at least on the West coast, building codes incorporate earthquake survivability of the occupants, inexpensive solid walls collapse easily in earthquakes, 2. speed and cost of construction and availability of labor for woodframe housing and even multistory apartment buildings across the USA.

Why do Florida homes have popcorn ceilings?

Contractors and DIYers didn't have to spend hours fixing every crack, hole, or bump. Instead, they could just add the popcorn texture, paint, and call it a day. Another reason popcorn ceilings were popular (and still are in multi-family housing) is because they dampen sound.

What is the most expensive wall texture?

Level 5 Wall Texture

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. Extra skim coats are applied, and more attention must be placed on floating drywall to ensure every wall is even.

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.

Should walls be smooth or textured?

There are also a lot of reasons not use a textured drywall finish in a modern home, but maybe the most significant of all is the overall appearance. If you want a very clean, minimalist, simple aesthetic, or wall coverings (paper or textile), you will want to have a smooth Level 4 or Level 5 drywall finish.

Are textured walls making a comeback?

In the world of interior design, trends often come and go, but certain elements have a way of circling back to the forefront with renewed interest. One such element experiencing a major revival in 2024 is textured wallpaper.

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.

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 a Florida house style?

Florida house styles are a unique blend of traditional and modern design elements. Characterized by open floor plans, high ceilings, and plenty of windows to let in natural light, Florida-style house plans are designed to take advantage of the warm climate and beautiful views.

Why are Texas houses so cheap?

The affordability of housing in Texas is driven not just by the availability of land but also by a business-friendly environment and more affordable labor. This has had an obvious impact on building costs, which consequently helps make homes cheaper overall.

What are cowboy houses called?

Bunkhouses shelter buckaroos. The same shelter may be called by different names, depending on location and use: bunkhouse, cabin, line camp, buckaroo camp, cow camp. A bunkhouse is usually thought of as a small house on the home ranch that serves as a permanent home for employees, whether buckaroos or hands.

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